Welcome to ID Tech’s digest of identity industry news. Here’s what you need to know about the world of digital identity and biometrics today:
Phased Enforcement Plan Could Push REAL ID Implementation to 2027 for Some States
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a phased enforcement plan that could extend the REAL ID implementation deadline to 2027 for some states as they integrate mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) into their identification systems. The REAL ID Act, established in 2005, sets enhanced security standards for state-issued IDs to prevent identity fraud and improve national security. Initially, residents were required to obtain compliant IDs by May 7, 2025, to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. However, regulatory changes may allow non-compliant mDLs for official purposes until May 6, 2025, if states apply for waivers. Illinois recently joined 11 other states in adopting digital ID technology, with mDL adoption accelerating nationwide following new international standards.
New York State Mandates MFA and Biometric Authentication in New AI Cybersecurity Guidance
The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) has issued updated guidance emphasizing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and biometric authentication to address cybersecurity risks from artificial intelligence (AI). Covered Entities under DFS’s Cybersecurity Regulation must implement MFA for accessing sensitive systems or non-public information by November 2025, incorporating factors such as biometric traits or security tokens. The guidance highlights defenses against AI-manipulated deepfakes, including digital certificates and physical security keys. Organizations are also required to periodically review access privileges, strengthen data governance measures, and establish data inventories to mitigate unauthorized access. Risk Assessments must be updated to account for threats like deepfakes, with vendor management policies requiring strict access controls and notification protocols for third-party service providers.
IQE to Conduct Strategic Review Amid Challenging Market Conditions
IQE, a British semiconductor wafer maker and supplier for Apple’s facial recognition technology, has announced a strategic review of its assets amid a slow recovery in the semiconductor industry. The company is considering selling its Taiwan operations after previously planning an IPO for the unit. IQE, which produces epi-wafers used in Apple’s Face ID systems, has been affected by U.S.-China tensions and concerns over supply chain security. It expects 2024 revenue to remain flat at approximately £115 million, contrasting earlier growth forecasts. Shares fell 15 percent to their lowest in over 15 years following the announcement. The departure of CEO Americo Lemos last month has added to the company’s challenges, with CFO Jutta Meier now leading during this transition. IQE expects a full-year adjusted core profit of at least £5 million, falling short of market expectations.
Thales Eyes Profit Growth Amid Cybersecurity Expansion
Thales, Europe’s largest defense technology company, has announced growth targets projecting annual sales increases of five to seven percent and an operating profit margin of 13 to 14 percent by 2028. This strategy builds on investments in cybersecurity and digital security, including the 2019 acquisition of Gemalto and the 2023 acquisition of U.S. cybersecurity firm Imperva. These moves have positioned Thales among the top five global cybersecurity firms, with revenues in the sector quadrupling in recent years. Rising global defense spending and increased cybersecurity demand are key factors.
Abu Dhabi Airport Launches Middle East’s First U.S. Customs Preclearance Facility
Abu Dhabi Airports has launched the Middle East’s first U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport (AUH). Serving all Etihad Airways flights to the United States, the facility allows passengers to complete U.S. immigration procedures in Abu Dhabi, enabling their arrival in the U.S. as domestic passengers and eliminating additional screenings. Using biometric technology such as facial recognition and comparison systems, it has already processed approximately 43,000 passengers. A dedicated lounge for premium travelers will open in December 2024, complementing the UAE’s Global Entry partnership for expedited U.S. entry for pre-approved UAE citizens.
Malaysia-Singapore QR Code Border System to Expand After Successful Pilot
Malaysia and Singapore’s cross-border QR code trial has improved efficiency at the Johor Causeway since its launch in June 2024. The trial integrates the MyTrip, MyBorderPass, and MyRentas systems to address congestion at one of Southeast Asia’s busiest land border crossings. Immigration clearance times have dropped to five seconds per rider and six seconds for riders with passengers, compared to the eight seconds required by the M-bike system. This has increased processing capacity by 25 percent, reaching over 750 motorcyclists per hour. Malaysian authorities plan to expand the QR code system to bus travelers and other transport modes in phases starting in 2025. The initiative aligns with Malaysia’s modernization of border control systems, which includes biometric screening at airports. The procurement process for a permanent system is expected to conclude by the end of 2024, with the project serving as a model for other high-traffic borders in the region.
Jamaica Launches NIDS Digital ID Card Distribution to Initial 300 Citizens
Jamaica has begun distributing National Identification System (NIDS) cards as part of a nationwide digital ID program launched on November 16, 2024. The initiative provides citizens with a unique identification number to enhance security and streamline access to government services. It builds on Jamaica’s biometric infrastructure, including voter registration systems developed with TECH5 and Pangea. The process requires biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images, and involves registration, verification, and card issuance stages. Jamaicans abroad must return for biometric enrollment. The NIDS cards support services like voter verification, social benefits, healthcare access, and secure financial transactions, aiming to reduce identity theft and improve service delivery.
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November 18, 2024 – by Tony Bitzionis and Alex Perala
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