Sri Lanka has embarked on an ambitious digital transformation project with the introduction of the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) programme. This initiative aims to replace the country’s traditional physical identification card system with a digital ID infrastructure, modernising identity verification and access to services for its citizens.

On 13 January 2025, DREWSEN SPEZIALPAPIERE, a German leader in the production of specialty and security papers, announced the acquisition of UK-based PORTALS PAPER Ltd, a well-known producer of high-security papers for passports and identity documents. This union merges the complementary strengths of two companies with rich traditions in secure papermaking, marking a significant development in the field of identity and counterfeit protection.

In its final days, the Biden administration is preparing an executive order that emphasises the use of digital identity technologies, such as mobile driving licences (mDLs), to enhance identity verification for public benefit programmes.

TECH5 has initiated the modernisation of the Virginia State Police’s Livescan systems, a critical upgrade aimed at enhancing biometric identification processes.

HID, a global provider of identity solutions, has unveiled its role in developing and deploying San Marino’s latest contactless ID card. This new national ID integrates security features and enhanced operational capabilities, representing advances in identity management for the historic republic.

The travel and tourism industry is a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions. Various studies and reports in recent years have estimated that the industry is responsible for approximately 8-11% of global emissions.

At the recent High Security Printing™ Asia conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Serge Wsevolojskoy, Product Manager for Security Features at IDEMIA Smart Identity, presented a comprehensive technical overview of the company’s new Identity Document Quick Response (IDQR) security system.

The annual Regional Banknote and ID Document of the Year Awards, a highlight of the High Security Printing ™ Asia Conference, took place in Bangkok, Thailand on 3 December. This prestigious event brought together industry leaders to celebrate exceptional achievements in design, security, and technological innovation across identity systems and banknotes.

Recent claims that Chinese researchers have cracked military-grade encryption using quantum computing have sparked concern and headlines. However, a further look at the claims reveals that the picture is not quite that straightforward.

In a significant digital innovation, Kenya has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, overhauling its visa application process.

A sharp rise in AI-assisted identity fraud is reshaping cybersecurity on a global scale, as highlighted in the 2025 Identity Fraud Report released by the Entrust Cybersecurity Institute.

The 20th edition of the High Security Printing™ (HSP) Asia conference in Bangkok, Thailand (2-4 December 2024), marked an important milestone in advancing the region’s security printing industry.

Christmas is near. Many travellers will once again need their passport when crossing borders. However, digitisation is now reducing the steps required to check passports when travelling. Veridos demonstrates how modern technologies can ensure greater convenience and shorter queues.

The October 2024 edition of the Henley Passport Index ranks passport strength by the number of countries their holders can visit without requiring a visa. At the top of the list is Singapore, whose passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 countries, maintaining its position as a leader in global mobility.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already improving biometric authentication systems, enhancing their accuracy and efficiency. However, advances in AI have also introduced new vulnerabilities, particularly through AI-driven spoofing techniques and deepfake technologies.

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for accurate public health data in crisis management, once again highlighting the importance of robust civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) systems.

New Orleans is set to join a growing number of US cities offering municipal ID cards, a step aimed at assisting immigrants, homeless individuals, and other residents who struggle to secure state-issued identification.

The secure identity industry continues to witness significant consolidation as key industry players announce acquisitions to strengthen their portfolios and expand their offerings.

Lithuania’s Identity Documents Personalisation Centre (IDPC) has announced the termination of its passport production contract with Garsų Pasaulis, a prominent Lithuanian printing and security solutions company.

Dr Joseph Atick is renowned for his pioneering work in the field of biometric identification, particularly in facial recognition technology. He is considered one of the founding figures in the development of biometric systems and has contributed significantly to making biometric identification widely accessible and usable.