DIGITAL ID - Chapter Three (What is Digital ID?)
This is the second of a series of articles prepared by the ReformUK Community on X.com with a similar structure & presentation to help UK youngsters aged 16+ and adults choose who to vote for...
DIGITAL ID - Chapter Three
Because of the importance and general lack of understanding of this topic, this document is more of a book primarily concerned with Digital ID in the UK that also covers other subject areas in summary which are relevant to the extent that Digital ID may be used in ownership of assets such as bank accounts, fiat & digital currency, cryptocurrencies, taxation, personal identification, international border control and general surveillance of increasing populations in an increasingly global world open to many digital opportunities, concerns and challenges to our lives, freedoms, wealth and livelihoods.
Political parties are increasingly talking about Digital ID and some high risk steps may be irreversible. Decisions enforced by UK Law will be dependent on Parliament, on what our MPs decide, on the policies of UK Political Parties and thus on who we all vote for…
The content is presented in SIX CHAPTERS:-
CHAPTER ONE - Why is Digital ID the next logical step in our increasingly digital world?
CHAPTER TWO - How is wealth changing and what is valuable in life?
CHAPTER THREE - What is Digital ID?
CHAPTER FOUR - Why is Digital ID controversial?
CHAPTER FIVE - Why are cryptocurrencies controversial?
CHAPTER SIX - What are the present policies of UK Political Parties in regard to Digital ID and currency usage into the future?
These chapters are first going to be released separately through the ReformUK Community on X.com, with a link to the complete document for those who want to read it like a whole book.
CHAPTER THREE
What is Digital ID?
DIGITAL ID
BACKGROUND
Digital ID's modern origins can be traced back to the rise of social media logins, where platforms like Facebook and Google allowed users to authenticate on other websites using their social media accounts, themselves associated with email addresses. This convenience-driven approach paved the way for broader digital identity systems, with governments and organizations exploring digital IDs for various purposes, including access to services and secure transactions. However, many Users have multiple identities (e.g. Email Addresses) verified only by contact for convenience, security and usage in different roles, in work and at home.
In the identity verification industry, “Digital ID” is a buzzword that means different things to different people. For some, it’s a secure login across government platforms; for others, it’s a digital version of an ID Card stored on a smartwatch or smartphone.
The World Economic Forum (WEF), in September 2021, produced a 73 page guide for potential Digital ID usage identifying a range of potential applications illustrated below:
At present, the UN General Assembly are planning to solidify the implementation of Digital ID in their Agenda 2030, which they will want Sir Keir Starmer to sign the UK up to later this year. There is a Petition Against this, with justifications.
The general consensus is that a Digital ID is an identity that consistently includes these characteristics:
1. It exists in a digital format.
2. It serves as proof of identity (with personal data), fully replacing physical ID.
3. It enables authentication and authorization through a unique identifier.
In this context, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s Digital Travel Credentials (DTCs) are a good example. They represent a person’s identity in digital form and include an identification dataset. To generate a DTC, the user verifies their physical passport via an NFC-enabled device, which confirms the chip’s authenticity and data integrity. DTCs then enable carriers to identify passengers at security & boarding gates using a quick facial recognition check, matched with DTC data.
UK Government Initiatives and Standardization
Until this project ended in August 2024, UK's GOV.UK Verify project aimed to create a government-backed Digital Identity service for accessing online public services, notably HMRC, DVLA & the DWP. While it faced challenges, it highlighted the complexities and importance of establishing reliable digital verification systems.
The replacement system enables you to use the ‘GOV.UK One Login’ facility to access an expanding range of UK Government provided services [link as FAV on phone], but still has security concerns. The UK has also developed a Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework which outlines the rules and standards for digital identity services. This framework helps ensure that services meet certain quality and security standards according to GOV.UK developers.
The stated Key Drivers and Challenges for Digital ID are:
1. Convenience and Efficiency:
Digital IDs offer a more convenient and efficient way to access services and manage online identities compared to traditional methods.
2. Security and Trust:
Ensuring the security and trustworthiness of Digital IDs is crucial. This includes protecting user data, preventing fraud, and building trust in the systems.
3. Privacy Concerns:
Digital identity systems raise important privacy concerns, particularly regarding the collection and use of personal data.
4. Accessibility and Inclusion:
Digital IDs should be accessible to all, regardless of their technical capabilities or location.
5. Centralized vs. Decentralized:
There are ongoing discussions about whether Digital Identity systems should be centralized (managed by governments or large organizations) or decentralized (allowing individuals more control over their data).
The Future of Digital ID is expected to include:
1. Digital Wallets:
Digital wallets are becoming increasingly popular, allowing users to store and manage their Digital IDs and other credentials in one place, e.g. Season Tickets, Credit, Debit, Store, Loyalty & Membership cards.
2. Cross-Border Digital Identity:
Efforts are underway to enable seamless Digital Identity verification across borders, facilitating international travel and trade.
3. Continued Innovation and Standardization:
Digital ID technology is constantly evolving, with ongoing efforts to improve security, privacy and user experience. Just like Passports and ID Cards have built-in security features, Digital IDs stored in Digital Wallets use encryption and other protective measures. The identification data itself is typically protected with advanced cryptographic methods, as is the case with DTCs. This makes Digital IDs a safer and more convenient alternative to physical documents, which can be lost, stolen, or tampered with. (N.B. Of course, a mobile phone with a Digital Wallet can also be lost or stolen.)
UK POLITICAL DEBATE
At the end of November 2024, there was ongoing debate in the House of Commons about how Digital ID might be employed:-
The Labour government led by Gordon Brown attempted to introduce ID Cards in 2009, but the scheme was scrapped in 2010 by the incoming Tory-led coalition on the basis that it was an “erosion of civil liberties”.
The Shadow Home Secretary in the Conservative Party, Chris Philp, said they will “very carefully” consider introducing compulsory Digital ID Cards. He said he believed there was a “very strong case” for introducing the cards to make it easier for people to prove who they are when using taxpayer-funded services. But he added that the policy would raise questions around privacy and civil liberties and would therefore need to be rigorously assessed. Later he said it was a “legitimate and valid debate to have, and I think any responsible party should think about it very carefully” after Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, said in June 2024 that she would be open to the introduction of ID Cards to clamp down on illegal migration, those who won’t have ID Cards.
Sir Tony Blair’s Institute for Global Change, and Lord Blunkett, the former Labour Home Secretary who first put forward the idea, have remained strong advocates of compulsory ID Cards as a simple, effective way to tackle illegal migration.
In a policy paper, Labour Together argued that a new BritCard – downloaded to phones free of charge – would help crack down on illegal migration, the black market in jobs for cash, and provide the public with a “one-stop shop” for government services such as passports or benefits without the need for further identity checks.
The consensus in the Labour Party and Conservatives leadership is that providing the built-in security features of Digital IDs are sufficient, they will be a safer and more convenient alternative to physical documents, which can be lost, stolen, or tampered with. However, of course, a mobile phone with a Digital Wallet can also be lost or stolen; and there is no Digital ID mandate in present UK Legislation, but, in practice, anybody who uses UK Government provided services will still need to register if they want to avoid calling UK Government Services by phone or in person at UK Government offices.
Other UK political parties, are not so convinced about the plans and see major risks which are covered here under Concerns.
CURRENT POSITION
Global
A number of countries have already launched Digital ID systems ranging from electronic extensions of physical National ID cards and driver’s licenses to fully standalone digital identities. There are many articles which might be read on the successes and ongoing concerns. This Identity web site may help readers.
Projects like Ireland’s myGovID account and Australia’s myID which offer a single login to access public services after verification, can be considered a transition point. These options can’t be used in person as official proof of identity; they only grant access to selected online services. Nevertheless, these projects may evolve into fully functional Digital IDs in the future.
Another example is “digital IDs” that can be obtained through online or in-person registration in a government-run digital ID system. These documents include personal details and a QR code that can be scanned during verification. Holders can either print them or store them as an e-file, using them instead of physical ID cards in many verification scenarios. Examples include India’s e-Adhaar and the Philippines’ ePhilID. But, these are often printed and used as physical documents, they aren’t pure Digital IDs - they represent another transitional form with some obvious security issues.
This list of Digital IDs by country doesn’t represent the entire picture. It highlights the most mature projects and reflects the current state of implementation globally at different levels of maturity and functionality:-
UNITED KINGDOM
BACKGROUND
Standards, governance and oversight of Digital Identity services in the UK is now grounded in law, ensuring they are trusted and secure. The new UK legislation formalises the system that is currently operating as a pilot. This will pave the way for trusted digital identities to be used in more places.
In the UK, digital identity is increasingly recognized and regulated, particularly with the passage of the Data (Use and Access) Act into law, which provides a legal framework for Digital Verification Services (DVS). This legislation aims to ensure the trustworthiness and security of digital identity services while not mandating a national Digital ID system. The Office for Digital Identities and Attributes (OfDIA), within the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), is leading the government's work in this area.
KEY ASPECTS
Here's a breakdown of key aspects in the initial plans:
1. Legal Framework:
Data (Use and Access) Act:
This act establishes a legal basis for Digital Verification Services (DVS) and sets standards for their operation, but does not create a mandatory Digital ID system.
Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework:
This framework provides guidance and standards for organizations offering digital identity services, ensuring they meet security and privacy requirements.
Trustmark:
OfDIA can issue Trustmarks to organizations that meet the established standards, indicating their trustworthiness in handling digital identities.
2. Key Applications:
Right to Work, Right to Rent, and Criminal Record Checks:
Digital identities can already be used to verify these, simplifying the process for individuals and employers.
Age Verification:
Digital IDs have been proposed for age verification in various settings, such as alcohol purchases in pubs and stores. These have been badged ‘Brit Cards’.
Accessing UK Government Services:
The GOV.UK One Login project aims to provide a secure and streamlined way for individuals to prove their identity and access UK Government services online with the same email address and a valid password, or Digital ID if established, including the ability to load digital versions of Driving Licences, Veteran Cards and Passports (where the physical licences and cards will still be valid, and physical Passports will still be needed for international travel) into their Digital Wallet identified by their Digital ID during 2025. Other UK Government Departments are progressively expected to use this scheme through to end 2027.
Healthcare and Other Sectors:
The Data (Use and Access) Act also enables the secure sharing of healthcare information and other data across different systems, potentially revolutionizing how services are delivered.
3. Key Considerations:
No Mandatory Digital ID:
The UK Government has emphasized that the new legislation does not introduce a mandatory Digital ID system. Efforts are being made to ensure those without smartphones or Internet access are not excluded from the digital services.
Data Protection:
The focus is on ensuring data security and privacy when using digital identities, with robust standards and oversight in place. The UK Government has also stated that the systems will comply with existing data laws and offer recovery options for lost phones, according to news articles.
Expansion of Use Cases:
The UK Government is working to expand the use of digital identities to more areas, making everyday transactions easier and more secure using smartphone Apps.
Trust and Transparency:
The legislation aims to build trust in digital identity systems through clear standards, certification processes, and public reporting.
In essence, the UK is moving towards a more digitized identity landscape, with a focus on security, privacy, and user choice. The Data (Use and Access) Act provides the legal foundation for this transition, ensuring that Digital IDs can be used reliably and safely in theory.
UK GOVERNMENT SERVICE ACCESS
Use of GOV.UK One Login is increasingly being used to access and use some UK Government services and features through Internet accessible Web Sites. It is managed by Government Digital Service (GDS), part of the Cabinet Office, on behalf of the Crown. It can be accessed via a computer and Internet Browser which uses a Windows, OS, iOS or Android operating system.
The GOV.UK One Login App can also now be downloaded to your smartphone like other Apps. There is no guarantee that this GOV.UK One Login service will always be available or be error free. Strong passwords are recommended and there is a long list of “you must” and “you must not use” conditions to agree; with liability for the online services accessible, the protection of any information you provide, and loss or damage that may come from your usage, largely placed with other government departments, agencies, service providers and organisations involved.
On first usage, you have to enter your main email address and agree to the Terms and Conditions, with your chosen password (twice), and a contact telephone number. These two contact addresses are both verified by sending you 6 digit security codes to re-enter on receipt. You can then choose to use Biometrics (e.g. fingerprints) to permit access more securely via your smartphone, and use the GOV.UK One Login to prove your identity to access government services which have enabled it.
Once logged in securely, you can then add UK Government Documents to your GOV.UK Wallet, at present only an HM Armed Forces Veteran Card, soon to include your Driving Licence. A digital copy will be saved on your smartphone for access even if not connected to the Internet. Such documents can then be displayed on your screen and shown to prove your identity or eligibility for services; later shared digitally and online.
As more and more services become accessible via the GOV.UK App, more people with a Driving Licence, with a Passport, etc. new immigrants, etc. will semi-automatically gain a GOV.UK Digital Wallet. The UK Digital ID, in whatever form is finally decided, will probably be put in or directly linked to this GOV.UK Digital Wallet if Parliament introduces this by law.
END OF CHAPTER THREE
Articles produced by the ReformUK Community
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Digital ID (complete document, chapters one to six)
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