Latest

Wero Expands European Payment Services with Launch in Belgium

Wero, a mobile payment app by the European Payments Initiative, is expanding into Belgium. The app supports QR code and P2P payments, aiming to create a unified European payment solution. Following its launch in Germany and France, Wero plans to introduce additional functionalities and enhance e-commerce payments. Despite losing some banking partners, the platform boasts…

Read full article

The Evolving Role of Biometrics in 2025: Key Developments and Trends

Biometrics are evolving within the digital identity landscape, with 2024 showing heightened demands in applications like age assurance. The EU’s biometric entry-exit system rollout faces delays, while trust frameworks gain traction globally. Mobile driver’s licenses and decentralized IDs make notable advancements. Significant acquisitions mark a transformative year for the biometrics industry as it prepares for…

Read full article

U.S. States’ AI Legislation Mirrors EU Approach but Differs on Biometrics

U.S. states are exploring AI regulation inspired by the EU AI Act, focusing on limiting algorithmic discrimination. Colorado has initiated legislative efforts, with proposals emerging in multiple states. However, compliance burdens raised by these new measures could pose challenges for businesses, particularly in biometrics, where existing state proposals lack restrictions on real-time remote identification. The…

Read full article

Understanding Biometric Data Regulation in Europe: GDPR and EU AI Act Insights

This article examines the regulatory landscape for biometric data in Europe under the GDPR and EU AI Act. Biometric data is essential for security technologies but is subject to stringent regulations to protect privacy. The GDPR provides a framework for processing biometric data, while the AI Act categorizes AI systems based on risk, with various…

Read full article

Digital ID Verification Spending to Surpass $26 Billion Globally by 2029

Global spending on digital identity verification is expected to grow by 74% to over $26 billion by 2029, primarily due to advancements in behavioral biometrics and blockchain technology. These innovations enhance fraud detection and ensure better user control over data privacy. Regulatory changes in the EU will also shape market practices significantly. A recent study…

Read full article

Cyprus Launches Digital ID Application Process for Citizens

Cyprus has initiated a digital ID application process called IDME.cy for citizens aged 18 and above. Applications began on January 27, 2023, requiring online submission and biometric capture. The digital ID enhances security and access to services, with the first 30,000 IDs issued for free. A digital wallet for storing IDs will also be launched,…

Read full article

EU Issues Guidelines on Banned AI Uses Under AI Act

The EU has released guidelines on banned AI uses under the AI Act, detailing applications such as real-time biometric identification and social scoring. Effective February 2nd, these non-binding guidelines aim to clarify compliance obligations for businesses and organizations. Moreover, they highlight exceptions for law enforcement in specific circumstances. Member states must establish enforcement authorities by…

Read full article

Emergence of AI Agents and Evolving Biometrics Applications

AI agents are revolutionizing the need for biometric solutions in digital identity verification. OpenAI’s Operator aims to help users distinguish themselves from AI, while Eurostar transitions from its SmartCheck system to the EU’s EES. Investments in the biometric sector are on the rise, reflecting the rapid adoption of these technologies across various applications while raising…

Read full article

Civil Rights Groups Demand Human Rights Focus in AI Act Guidelines

More than 20 civil rights organizations are urging the European Commission to prioritize human rights in the AI Act’s implementation guidelines. They stress the need for stricter regulations on biometric systems and call for a ban on retrospective biometric identification (RBI). These groups assert that clear definitions and rigorous regulations are essential to prevent misuse…

Read full article