Australia is preparing to implement a national online identification system known as the Digital ID. This system is designed to enhance the security and privacy of online data. However, concerns persist among Australians.
In a few months, Australians will have access to the Digital ID, which aims to improve online identification safety. The government has invested AUD $200 million over five years to address security concerns related to the data Australians provide to prove their identity online. Previous smaller applications by the Australian Taxation Office and Australia Post served as a pilot and proof of concept for the Digital ID. This new system will be a comprehensive approach to online identity verification and will be used by government agencies and eventually private companies, without exposing users’ sensitive data.
The Digital ID will have different levels of strength, depending on the amount of data associated with it. The Australian government plans to allow citizens to include various government-identifiable data, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, tax returns, medical histories, biometrics, passport details, and driver’s license information, behind their Digital ID. Initially, the focus will be on government agency interactions, but the long-term plan is to extend the system to the private sector.
To be part of the Australian Government Digital ID System, Digital ID providers must meet high standards for privacy, cybersecurity, and fraud control. They also need to ensure privacy by not tracking individuals’ accessed services. The government is committed to preventing the use of the Digital ID to track individuals’ digital footprints, especially when it becomes a verification method for private companies. Strict regulations will be in place, and non-compliance will have significant penalties.
Despite the government’s promises regarding security and privacy, the public still has significant concerns. One major concern is the potential for the system to be targeted by hackers, as it will hold a substantial amount of data. Lack of public awareness and consultation is also troubling to some, as the government has not adequately informed the public about the Digital ID’s purpose, scope, and usage. Additionally, concerns exist about potential misuse, such as the consideration of using the Digital ID for adult websites. Limited accessibility to alternative options is another concern, as Australians who prefer not to sign up for the Digital ID may face limitations in their interactions with government agencies.
As the Digital ID is expected to launch in around six months, the government must work to instill confidence in Australians regarding the system’s superiority and benefits to online privacy and data security. Implementing a single national online ID may have the potential to transform online services and limit the impact of cyber breaches. Given the broad bipartisan agreement on the Digital ID, organizations that handle identification and customer data should start understanding its implications for their businesses.
