New research has revealed that a significant portion of UK consumers are uncomfortable with digital identification, despite a push from the government to embrace digital ID technology.
Research from fintech group Checkout.com, in partnership with YouGov, found that a third of UK consumers are not comfortable with having an internationally recognised digital ID card or wallet.
Only 44% would be comfortable with the government storing additional biometric data and almost a quarter (23%) believe widespread digital ID usage will make the internet less safe.
The findings suggest public acceptance of the government’s planned push into digital IDs will be a struggle.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has tasked tech companies in the identity verification sector to work with the government to develop a digital driver’s licence that could be used to purchase age-restricted products.
“Digital ID could be a powerful tool for reducing fraud and catalysing economic growth. The problem is that UK consumers are not bought in,” said Checkout.com COO Jenny Hadlow.
Hadlow also acknowledged that the technology will be important for economic growth. “This means that tech must continue to enhance ID verification technology while governments and businesses urgently need to work together to increase trust in the digital economy as a whole and digital IDs specifically,” she added.
“We must find ways to integrate digital ID using non-intrusive technology, which takes collaboration across the ecosystem.”
Register for Free
Bookmark your favorite posts, get daily updates, and enjoy an ad-reduced experience.
Already have an account? Log in
