Passport checking service pilot announced

In the UK the core identity document that we use when transacting in the economy is a passport. But when transacting online it is difficult for businesses to assess the validity of the document. Starting today we are going to make that easier.

Working with the Home Office and the Government Digital Service we are launching a pilot scheme allowing organisations to digitally check their customer’s identity using British passport data. Individuals applying to access selected services online could have their identity verified this way if they choose to and give their consent.

Under this checking service, no organisation would be given access to government-held data. Approved organisations would simply get a yes or no as to whether the passport was validly issued, and no personal data not already provided by the individual would be used or shared.

Any new solutions will be compliant with recently strengthened data protection laws and set out requirements for the secure transfer of data. There will be no central identity database and individuals will be in control of their personal data.

The pilot will begin with companies who currently provide digital identity services to Government. The scheme will then be opened up to a small cohort of additional private sector companies for use across a range of services. More: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-plans-to-make-it-safer-for-people-to-confirm-their-identity-online

We are also seeking views on proposals to make the process of identity checking online easier and more secure for people and businesses. See: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/digital-identity