Kazakhstan is set to implement a centralized national system for remote biometric authentication by the end of the year, marking a significant advancement in the country’s digital infrastructure. Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov announced the initiative in response to an inquiry from a member of parliament, highlighting the government’s dedication to enhancing security and efficiency across various sectors.
The new biometric authentication system will be deployed across all major industries, including banking and public services. Establishing a nationwide system is deemed crucial for creating a unified database of biometric data, ensuring the information’s relevance and security. This centralized approach aims to streamline authentication processes and strengthen data protection measures, facilitating smoother access to essential services for citizens.
“The launch of the national system is expected to occur through the establishment of a joint venture between National Information Technologies JSC and BTS Digital,” Bektenov stated. “This new entity will be formed by the end of the year and will be supervised by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry.”
Despite the introduction of this advanced biometric system, citizens will retain the option to use alternative authentication methods when accessing public or financial services. These alternatives include single-use passwords via SMS, digital signatures, or email logins and passwords. Bektenov emphasized that individuals can use these methods either separately or in combination, depending on the specific legal requirements.
In a strategic move to integrate biometric technology into financial services, Kazakhstan mandated that banks and microfinance organizations conduct biometric authentication for issuing online loans starting in late August. This requirement highlights the government’s dedication to adopting cutting-edge authentication technologies to secure financial transactions and minimize the risk of fraud.
The establishment of the national biometric authentication system is part of Kazakhstan’s broader National Digital Strategy, led by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). The strategy will leverage GovStack, an open-source digital government platform designed to accelerate public service transformation, further reinforcing the country’s efforts to build a resilient and inclusive digital economy.
ID Tech reported earlier this week that GovStack will also be usedby the Government of Fiji for its recently announced National ID Program, indicating a growing trend of international collaboration in digital identity initiatives.
Additionally, the Almaty Metro in Kazakhstan began testing a facial recognition fare payment system called Face Pay late last year at two stations, Abai and Bauyrzhan Momyshuly. This system allows passengers to pay for rides by scanning their faces at designated terminals. Halyk Bank is involved in the initiative, enabling its customers to register for the service through the bank’s mobile app.
The launch of Kazakhstan’s national biometric authentication system is expected to enhance the security and efficiency of identification processes, promote financial inclusion, and foster economic growth by providing citizens with seamless access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and banking.
Source: Kursiv
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October 11, 2024 – by the Mobile ID World Editorial Team
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