Welcome to FindBiometrics’ digest of identity industry news. Here’s what you need to know about the world of digital identity and biometrics today:
EES Delayed Again as Officials Ease Biometric Requirements for Brits
The European Union has delayed the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) from October 6 to November 10, with a possible extension to November 17. The EES is designed to collect biometric data from third-country nationals entering the Schengen Area, and aims to automate checks and enhance border security. The delay is due to concerns about long queues and the readiness of member states. A new, more flexible approach has been proposed to alleviate delays, allowing many travelers at crowded checkpoints to skip biometric registration on their first entry. In extreme cases, only 10 percent of travelers may need to provide biometric data initially. This phased introduction over 12 to 18 months will be supported by a public communication campaign to improve the traveler experience.
Québec to Implement Digital Wallet for Citizens
The government of Québec has announced a cybersecurity and digital technology strategy (“Stratégie gouvernementale de cybersécurité et du numérique 2024-2028”) that includes the implementation of a digital ID system. The digital wallet, a central element of this plan, aims to replace the current method of presenting physical photo ID, which involves sharing unnecessary personal information and increasing the risk of identity theft. The digital wallet will store identity information in a secure digital environment accessible via a mobile app, enhancing security and confidence in both public and private sector transactions. The strategy also focuses on unifying digital government services, promoting digital literacy, and responsibly integrating artificial intelligence to improve public administration performance.
King’s Speech Highlights Digital Identity Plans
The UK government is planning a digital identity-driven transformation as highlighted in this year’s Throne Speech, presented in the “Digital Information and Smart Data Bill”. Key components include the establishment of digital verification services to streamline identity-checking processes, with economic benefits estimated at £600 million per year. The bill aims to provide a statutory footing for innovative data uses, supporting secure and trusted digital identity products for activities like moving house, pre-employment checks, and purchasing age-restricted goods. The government will also promote standards for digital identities focusing on privacy, security, and inclusion, and strengthen the Information Commissioner’s Office to ensure robust data protection. The plans indicate a commitment to advancing digital ID initiatives despite recent political disruptions.
SITA Gets Five-Year Contract Extension for Heathrow Upgrade
SITA has secured a five-year contract extension with Heathrow Airport. Under this agreement, SITA will provide a range of network, telecommunications, and connectivity services, including managing network access switches, wireless access points, and phone lines. SITA’s on-site team will support various projects and maintain the network telecoms infrastructure, cybersecurity, and operational technology, aiding Heathrow’s internal teams and commercial clients. The extension is part of Heathrow’s strategy to handle increasing air traffic and future-proof its operations, while SITA aims to ensure a seamless passenger experience. This contract renewal comes shortly after SITA’s acquisition of Materna IPS, which will bolster its global aviation services portfolio.
Reality Defender Leverages ElevenLabs’ Deepfake Expertise to Detect Synthetic Voices
Reality Defender, a New York-based startup focused on detecting deepfake media, has partnered with ElevenLabs to enhance its platform’s capabilities in detecting synthetic voices. ElevenLabs is known for its deepfake technology expertise, having gained attention when a journalist used its voice cloning technology to bypass a bank’s voice biometric system. The partnership will leverage ElevenLabs’ audio deepfake detection models to strengthen Reality Defender’s offerings against deepfake-driven disinformation and fraud. Reality Defender’s clients include governments and international organizations, while ElevenLabs emphasizes its commitment to AI safety.
German Village Grocery Store Uses Biometric Age Verification for Self-checkout
Diebold Nixdorf has implemented AI-based age verification technology at a newly reopened 24/7 self-service grocery store in Freckenfeld, Germany. The store now operates with two DN Series EASY eXpress self-service checkouts for cashless payments, functioning even in unmanned mode. During staffed hours, employees can restock shelves and assist customers, while the Vynamic Smart Vision I Age Verification system facilitates the purchase of age-restricted items. When staff are unavailable, customers can access these items using the same biometric system. Store operator Benedikt Paul expressed satisfaction with the innovative concept, highlighting its convenience and modern approach. Diebold Nixdorf Vice President of Retail Technology Solutions, Matt Redwood, noted that the AI-based age verification solution speeds up the checkout process, benefiting both customers and employees.
Digital ID Integration Transforms Pakistani Society
A recent report on the World Economic Forum (WEF) blog highlights the integral role of digital identity in the daily lives of adults in Pakistan, driven primarily by the efforts of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). NADRA has issued over 240 million Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs), facilitating tasks like banking, purchasing airline tickets, obtaining driver’s licenses, and accessing social services. The agency’s involvement in initiatives like the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and the Asaan Mobile Account (AMA) scheme has notably advanced financial inclusion. The BISP increased CNIC issuance by 72 percent, and the AMA scheme secured over 10 million mobile accounts within two years, with around 40 percent owned by women. The WEF report also underscores Pakistan’s digital public infrastructure (DPI) projects, which aim to boost financial inclusion and empower citizens in underserved areas through digital identity, fast digital payment systems, and data exchanges between public and private entities.
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July 18, 2024 — by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala
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