New digital ID scheme to be rolled out across UK

The government has announced its intention to launch a new digital ID scheme designed to “help combat illegal working while making it easier for the vast majority of people to use vital government services.”

Digital ID, held on people’s phones, will be mandatory for Right to Work checks and available to all UK citizens and legal residents. It is anticipated the scheme may act as a deterrent to illegal immigrants, curbing their prospect of earning money, although what impact this would have on access to benefits, if any, is yet to be determined.

The government has said there will be no requirement for individuals to carry their ID or be asked to produce it at any other time and that the scheme will make it simpler to apply for services like driving licences, childcare and welfare, while streamlining access to tax records.  

A public consultation will be launched later this year where views will be sought on how the service will be delivered, including engaging with groups who aren’t as experienced with the digital world, like the homeless and older people. ID will include name, date of birth, information on nationality or residency status, and a photo – as the basis for biometric security. The consultation will consider whether including additional information, like address, would be helpful.

At a time when many organisations are experiencing cyber-attacks despite sophisticated IT Systems, the government says its plans will offer significant benefits for reducing identity theft and preserving privacy, with security at its core.

Similar schemes operate in Australia, Estonia, Denmark and India. Digital ID will be mandatory for Right to Work checks by the end of the Parliament.

If you have a view on the proposed Digital ID scheme, please let us know.