The UK Government has launched its first guidelines for the development of digital identity applications, paving the way for a new era of digital IDs.
The Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework is a first draft of the guidelines that the Government hopes will ultimately kickstart a network of tech providers to create a range of online applications that allow citizens to securely verify their identities when engaging with public and private services.
“I want the trust framework to help facilitate a clear understanding between people using identity products, the organisations relying on the service and the service providers, letting each party know data is being used appropriately and kept safe,” he added.
The draft guidelines cover the foundations of what effective digital identity verification should look like, including:
Ensuring products and services are accessible and inclusive
Privacy and data protection
Fraud management
Security
The framework outlines standards and requirements for technology developers to create compliant and secure digital identity applications. Potential uses include:
ID verification for financial transactions like banking and property purchases
Age verification apps for restricted activities like alcohol purchase
Credit scores and checks
Proof of vaccinations
The newly released guidelines are an alpha version, with the expectation that feedback from partners, potential suppliers and other public sector stakeholders will lead to an iterative design approach for the final guidelines.