Welcome to FindBiometrics’ digest of identity industry news. Here’s what you need to know about the world of digital identity and biometrics today:
Bhutan’s Digital ID System Shifts to Polygon Blockchain
Bhutan has transitioned its National Digital Identity (NDI) system from the Hyperledger Indy distributed ledger to the Polygon Blockchain, marking a significant upgrade in its digital infrastructure. The shift aims to enhance the security, scalability, and performance of the NDI system, where biometric technology plays a key role. It also includes an upgrade to the protocol layer, now based on CREDEBL, an open-source decentralized identity and verifiable credentials platform endorsed by the Digital Public Goods Alliance and supported by the United Nations.
Experian Acquires Behavioral Biometrics Specialist NeuroID
Experian has acquired NeuroID, a behavioral analytics specialist known for its technology that detects fraudulent behavior by analyzing user interactions, such as how they fill out forms or conduct transactions. NeuroID’s capabilities will enhance Experian’s fraud risk suite, particularly through integration with Experian’s CrossCore platform. The acquisition follows a successful partnership that began in late 2023, during which NeuroID’s technology was implemented into Experian’s CrossCore and PreciseID solutions to help automate fraud detection during account openings.
FaceTec Rejoins DIACC, Bringing Expertise in 3D Biometric Security
FaceTec has rejoined the Digital ID & Authentication Council of Canada (DIACC), reinforcing its role in shaping Canada’s digital identity standards. Known for its advanced 3D FaceMap technology, FaceTec offers robust remote identity verification by capturing detailed three-dimensional facial maps, which are difficult to spoof. FaceTec’s expertise is expected to contribute significantly to the evolution of digital ID standards in Canada, aligning with DIACC’s mission to innovate in identity verification. DIACC, though a non-profit, plays a pivotal role in Canada’s digital identity landscape, working on initiatives like the Pan-Canadian Trust Framework (PCTF) to standardize secure digital authentication processes.
Kuwait Civil Service Mandates Biometric Attendance Tracking
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) of Kuwait has issued a directive mandating the use of biometric verification systems to track employee attendance during official working hours. Starting next Sunday, all government agencies are required to integrate flexible fingerprint technology and facial recognition into their attendance systems. Agencies using smartphone applications for attendance must incorporate both verification methods, while those relying on traditional fingerprint devices must update their systems accordingly. The CSC also emphasized the importance of providing a timing table for fingerprint verification and ensuring that employees have easy access to the system.
Signed Legislation Lets Illinois Begin Search for mDL Vendor
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has signed new legislation allowing residents to obtain digital versions of their driver’s licenses or state IDs, making Illinois the 12th state to adopt mobile ID technology. Set to take effect on January 1, 2025, the law permits the state to charge up to $6 for the smartphone application used to register the digital ID, which will complement, not replace, physical cards. Importantly, the legislation includes privacy protections, preventing law enforcement from accessing data on an individual’s phone without a search warrant when a digital ID is presented. The law also initiates the search for vendors to produce the digital IDs, which will feature a barcode allowing residents to confirm their identity without handing over their phones during traffic stops.
New Payment Card Uses Biometrics, Audio Feedback to Support Visually Impaired Users
IDEX Biometrics has partnered with London-based TaluCard to develop a new biometric payment card specifically designed for visually impaired users. Expected to launch in late 2024, the card features an embedded fingerprint sensor from IDEX, along with tactile markers to help users locate the sensor, and a voice guidance system for additional support. The card will be released alongside a mobile app for iOS and Android that allows users to manage their payments and accounts. The app includes a discreet audio feedback system, ensuring that transaction details are communicated to users while maintaining privacy. The TaluCard initiative aligns with upcoming regulatory measures aimed at fostering financial inclusivity, such as the UK Consumer Duty and the European Accessibility Act, making it a significant step forward in accessible payment solutions.
Prove Appoints Linda Mantia to Board of Directors
Prove has appointed Linda Mantia to its Board of Directors, bringing nearly 30 years of executive leadership experience to the company. Mantia’s background includes serving as Chief Operating Officer at Manulife Financial Corporation, where she oversaw key corporate functions like technology, analytics, and innovation. Her experience also extends to leadership roles at Royal Bank of Canada, where she contributed to the development of credit cards and mobile banking solutions. Mantia’s expertise is expected to play a crucial role in guiding Prove’s growth and enhancing customer experiences, particularly in the area of secure transactions and fraud prevention. Mantia currently serves on the boards of several other companies and has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women.
Invixium Introduces Enterprise Visitor Management with IXM WEB Upgrade
Invixium has unveiled IXM VISITOR, a new feature in its IXM WEB 3.0 software platform designed to enhance enterprise visitor management with a focus on security and efficiency. The upgrade introduces customizable visitor registration options, streamlined screening processes, and a flexible administrator dashboard, supporting various credentials such as biometrics, QR codes, and digital cards. IXM WEB 3.0 emphasizes data security with encryption technologies, including AES-256 encryption for stored data, TLS 1.3 for data in transit, and SHA-512 hashing. It also integrates with Azure Single Sign-On (SSO) for secure user authentication. The software features a redesigned user interface with over 500 new screens and a “Visual Map” for real-time device monitoring.
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August 15, 2024 — by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala
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