Digital Identity: Call for Evidence Response
The DMCS (Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport) have published a response to their Digital Identity “Call for Evidence” from July 2019.
Authoritative Government Data
The response acknowledges the need for authoritative government data. Identity proofing in the UK is largely using credit bureau data combined with checking of government issued photo ID such mainly Passports and Driving Licences. To be able to truly make a digital identity service digital and secure, better access to government data is necessary.
Standards
Standards were also seen as important and that the Government must aim for consistent levels of assurance. It was also seen as necessary to align the standards with existing regulation, something that’s been a bit of a miss between say GPG45 and the EU AML Regulations.
New Technology
The response comments that new technology such as distributed ledgers, biometrics and digital wallets could aid inclusion and help to safeguard rights.
Role of Government
The response concludes that Government are best placed to build consensus around the vision for digital identity. It’s true that the industry has been pulling in different directions, however also true that the industry have been frustrated with the slow progress on this agenda by the Government. The digital identity programme Gov.uk Verify was started by the Cabinet Office in 2011 and has made little progress in comparison to many other commercial offerings. The method and technology for the Gov.uk Verify system are also old, based on what was possible in 2011. There are many commercial offerings now offering newer approaches. If the Government is to lead, this needs to be made more of a priority from the current administration.
Read the Digital Identity: Call for Evidence Response
The DMCS (Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport)
The Department for Digital, Media, Culture, and Sport (DCMS) is a government department in the United Kingdom. It is responsible for policy and regulations related to digital technology, media, culture, and sport in the country. The department was created in 2010 and is led by the Secretary of State for Digital, Media, Culture, and Sport, who is a member of the UK government’s cabinet. The DCMS has a range of responsibilities, including overseeing the work of public bodies such as Ofcom (the regulator for the communications industry in the UK), the BBC, and the Arts Council England. It also has a role in promoting the creative industries and supporting the development of digital infrastructure and services in the UK.