Identity News Digest – July 8, 2024

Welcome to FindBiometrics’ digest of identity industry news. Here’s what you need to know about the world of digital identity and biometrics today:

Keyless’ Zero-Knowledge Biometrics Solution Comes to Temenos Exchange

Keyless has introduced its passwordless authentication solution to the Temenos Exchange, an open marketplace for fintech solutions managed by the banking software provider Temenos. The Keyless platform, known for its “Zero-Knowledge Biometrics” technology, creates biometric profiles for authentication without storing biometric data, enhancing security against breaches. Keyless has recently received several accolades, including an AI Breakthrough Award and ISO 27001 certification.

Czechia Bans Entry of Russians Without Biometric Passports

Czechia has implemented a new policy banning Russian citizens without biometric passports from entering the country, effective July 3, 2024, to enhance security and prevent sabotage. The decision follows EU recommendations and has also been adopted by Denmark. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky stressed the need for heightened security, referencing a 2014 incident in Vrbetica in which Russian saboteurs used non-biometric passports. The policy is part of a broader strategy to mitigate risks posed by Russian nationals, including calls for movement restrictions on Russian diplomats within the Schengen area due to espionage concerns.

U.S. Appeals Court Overturns BIPA Arbitration Demand Against Samsung

The U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals has overturned a lower court’s decision requiring Samsung Electronics to pay arbitration fees for consumer privacy claims under Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The appeals court ruled that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate valid arbitration agreements with Samsung and that the lower court exceeded its authority by requiring Samsung to cover administrative fees. The original lawsuit accused Samsung of violating BIPA by collecting and using facial scans via its Gallery app without user consent. This ruling is a setback for the Illinois consumers who sought arbitration for their privacy claims, as the court determined that evidence like receipts or order numbers was necessary to prove the existence of arbitration agreements.

Pixel 9 to Feature Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor: Report

Google’s upcoming Pixel 9 and 9 Pro smartphones are rumored to feature an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, addressing previous user complaints about the performance of the optical under-display sensors in earlier models. The Qualcomm 3D Sonic Gen 2 sensor, expected in the new devices, uses inaudible sound waves to accurately and quickly map fingerprints, even when wet. The sensor has a larger 8x8mm surface area, enhancing ease of use and data capture. The change aims to improve reliability and speed, overcoming issues faced by the Pixel 6 and 6a models.

Kenyan County Commissions Biometric Time and Access System for Civil Service

Kenya-based Smart Applications International Ltd will provide a biometric attendance-tracking and access control system to Kisumu County, highlighting Kenya’s increasing adoption of biometric solutions. The system is aimed at improving digital infrastructure, and will enhance workforce management, accountability, and security. Kisumu County Governor H.E. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o praised the public-private collaboration. The initiative aligns with national efforts, such as Kenya’s Ministry of Public Service’s biometric payroll registration to eliminate “ghost workers” and the forthcoming Maisha Namba Digital ID project. Smart Applications International operates across several African countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia.

UK’s Labour Rules Out Digital ID System for Immigration

Britain’s newly elected Labour government has decided against implementing digital ID cards, despite former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair’s advocacy for them to control immigration. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds initially suggested all advice would be considered but later clarified that ID cards were not planned. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed that ID cards were not in the party’s election manifesto and said the government will be focusing on enforcement and tackling people-smuggling gangs. Labour aims to address illegal immigration by establishing a new Border Security Command, combining Border Force officials, police, and intelligence agencies, using counter-terror powers to combat smuggling operations.

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July 8, 2024 — by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala