The National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) is preparing to begin the use of digital identification (ID) cards this month.
NCIT is currently testing digital ID cards, which have numerous security features and will be used for the e-Faas authentication service used for government digital services. The e-Faas service has records of information on Maldivian citizens from the Department of National Registration (DNR), foreign workers from the Ministry of Economic Development, and visas of foreign nationals. It also has all personal information registered at government institutions, including information related to an individual’s marriage and children, and keeps records of the application user’s history. Over 140,000 individuals use the authentication service.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister of State for Environment, Climate Change, and Technology Mohamed Shareef said the digital ID cards are more secure and will enable citizens to keep their personal information private. He said the relevant authorities will store the information regarding digital ID cards and that the data cannot be changed.
Additionally, State Minister Shareef said the e-Faas authentication service and application have strong security features which will prevent the theft of personal information. He also said that the identity of the individual will be authenticated before the digital cards are provided and that the application will feature live checks with mobile biometric authentication and one-time passwords.