In Pursuit of Digital ID: Identity News Digest

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

KTDI Lives On: Transport Canada

A Transport Canada spokesperson is insisting that the Known Traveler Digital Identity project is still active. First announced back in 2018, the KTDI initiative was – and apparently still is – a collaboration between a number of government entities, the World Economic Forum, INTERPOL, and Accenture, and was focused on exploring the use of digital ID to facilitate seamless air travel, with biometrics poised to play an important role. But last year it seemed that the project had been quietly wound down. Read our full story.

New York Pursues Digital ID Upgrade

Several New York state agencies are testing a new digital ID solution aimed at making it easier for residents to access online services. Dubbed “NY.gov ID+”, the solution is meant to replace a number of disparate login systems currently used for access to different agencies. The system’s development is tied to a broader effort, led by Governor Kathy Hochul, to revamp government services, with plans to build out the state’s web design team and make online services more user-friendly and accessible.

Pennsylvania Lawmaker to Propose MDL Bill

A Pennsylvania lawmaker is looking to get the state on the mobile driver’s license bandwagon, with plans to introduce a bill that would clear the way for its launch. Rep. Dan Miller (D-Allegheny) has tried to pass such legislation before, but is hoping that a new bill modelled on Louisiana’s MDL law will be passed in the first half of 2023 and lead to real virtual IDs within a year after that. For its part, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation told CBS News that it’s already working on an MDL, but acknowledged that it “will need enabling legislation to offer this as an optional product” for Pennsylvanians.

Austrian Door Access Specialist Integrates FPC Tech

Austria-based door access specialist Ekey has integrated fingerprint sensor technology from Fingerprint Cards into two new offerings. Each of the “ekey sLine” and “ekey xLine” door access systems for residential buildings features the FPC1020 sensor model, enabling easy and secure access. Ekey Managing Director Raphaela Gallner said the fingerprint scanning systems “are a thousand times more secure than the four-digit PIN used with ATM cards,” adding, “our two latest developments mark a new era for door lock access control solutions.”

Lithuanian Challenger Bank Turns to iDenfy Security

iDenfy’s selfie-based biometric identity verification solution has been embraced by Finora Bank, a financial services organizations focused on serving SME customers. Finora recently obtained its banking license from the European Central Bank, opening the door to continental expansion – and prompting the need for enhanced digital security. The deal shows iDenfy’s momentum at the start of 2023, coming after the company’s announcements earlier this month of partnerships with UK-based Primo Dialler and Mano Bank, another Lithuania-based financial startup.

SITA Partners With Traveler Data Specialist

SITA has announced a partnership with Zamna, a startup focused on traveler data and identity. In a statement, the companies explained that Zamna’s solution uses a decentralized, blockchain-based model to collect and store passenger data; their partnership will allow SITA to hand over passenger data such as passport and health information to its customers, speeding up passenger processing. Their joint solution will first be deployed with AACO, a regional association of Arab airlines.

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January 25, 2023 – by Alex Perala

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