Electronic identification is the process by which a person can verify their identity in a digital environment using various electronic means: smart cards, apps, or biometric data. E-identification allows you to simplify many everyday tasks related to access to various services and resources, as well as increase the level of security and protection of personal data.
In this article, we will look at what electronic identification is, what types of identification exist, and how it is used in the modern world.
What types of E-identification are there?
Electronic identification (e-ID) is the process by which a person can verify their identity in a digital environment. This is an important element of modern life, as it allows you to safely access various services and resources, such as e-government, banking operations, social networks, and much more.
There are several main types of electronic identification::
- Smart cards. These are plastic cards equipped with a microprocessor and a chip that stores the owner’s personal data. They can be used for authentication when accessing electronic services, signing documents, and other purposes. Examples: national identity cards, driver’s licenses, and bank cards with a chip.
- Mobile apps. Apps installed on mobile devices allow users to authenticate using a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Examples: banking applications, applications for accessing government services, and applications for securely logging in to corporate systems.
- Biometric data. Fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition can be used for e-ID. Biometric data is unique for each person and provides a high level of security. Examples: access to mobile devices, office building access control systems, airport security systems.
- Digital certificates. These are electronic documents that confirm the identity of the owner and their right to use certain resources or services. They can be used for secure data transfer, signing electronic documents, and authentication. Examples: certificates for accessing corporate systems, certificates for signing electronic documents.
We should also mention national electronic identifications (not implemented in all countries). These are official documents issued by the state that contain electronic identification data of the owner. National e-IDs allow citizens to safely identify themselves in the digital environment when receiving public services, performing financial transactions, etc.
Application of electronic identification
Electronic identification is widely used in various fields:
- Public services. Electronic identity cards allow citizens to access government online services, such as filing tax returns, registering vehicles, receiving social benefits, etc.
- Financial transactions. Electronic identification plays a key role in banking, providing secure access to online banking, mobile payments, and other financial services. This helps prevent fraud and protect users ‘ financial data.
- Corporate security. E-identification is used to control access to corporate systems, networks, and resources. This allows you to protect confidential information and restrict access only to authorized employees.
- E-health. Electronic identification is used to access patients ‘ medical records, medication prescriptions, and other medical services in digital format. This increases the efficiency and quality of honey.it also protects the confidentiality of data.
- E-learning. E-ID is used in distance learning systems, allowing students to safely access educational resources and take exams online. This helps to increase access to education and improve its quality.
The use of e-ID helps to increase the availability and security of information.
Possible problems with E-identification
One of the main problems is the issue of reliability. Is it possible to be sure that the electronic identification system really protects users ‘ personal data and ensures that only they have access to their information? This is especially true in an era of growing cybercrime, when hackers are becoming more inventive and sophisticated in their methods.
Is it reliable?
In order for the system to be reliable, it is necessary to ensure a high level of protection of users ‘ personal data. This means using advanced encryption technologies, multi-factor authentication, and other security measures. In addition, it is important that the system is resistant to hacking and other forms of cyber attacks. Most e-ID systems have these security measures in place.
Is it safe?
Even if the system is reliable, there is a risk of data leakage, hacking, or other forms of unauthorized access. To ensure security, it is necessary to implement advanced security methods, including encryption, biometric authentication, and strict access control. In addition, it is important to conduct regular security audits and respond promptly to any identified vulnerabilities.
We recommend choosing only reliable and proven electronic identification systems!
Electronic identification in Estonia
Estonia is one of the leading countries in the field of e-government and digital services. The country has made significant investments in infrastructure development and the introduction of innovative technologies to provide its citizens with reliable and convenient ways to identify and access public and private services.
One of the key elements of electronic identification in Estonia is the X-Road system. It is a secure platform that allows various public and private information systems to securely exchange data. Thanks to X-Road, citizens can get access to a wide range of electronic services: filing tax returns, registering vehicles, making an appointment with a doctor, etc.
ID card in Estonia
One of the most popular and best electronic identification systems in Estonia is the ID card. It is a multi-functional document that combines traditional identity card functions with digital identification and signature capabilities.
This document not only confirms the identity of the owner, but also serves as a key to a wide range of electronic services. With the help of an ID card, citizens can safely identify themselves when using state portals, banking applications, sign documents in electronic form, and even vote in elections.
List of the most popular e-services used by e-residents in Estonia:
- filing tax returns (e-Tax Board);
- company registration (e-Business Register);
- managing bank accounts (online banking);
- applying for various licenses and permits (e-Permits);
- applying for an electronic signature (e-Residency);
- use of state electronic services (e-Government Services);
- medical card and doctor’s appointment (e-Health);
- voting in elections (i-Voting);
- the system of education and training (e-Education);
- trading platforms and marketplaces (e-Commerce);
- document management and electronic signature (e-Signature);
- public procurement (e-Procurement);
- reporting and auditing systems (e-Reporting);
- human resources Management systems (e-HR);
- project management systems (e-Project Management).
One of the key advantages of an Estonian ID card is its high level of security. The card is equipped with a chip that stores the owner’s personal data, as well as digital certificates for authentication and electronic signature. These technologies provide reliable protection of personal information.
The future of E-identification
Today, electronic identification is already firmly established in our lives. We use it to access various online services, perform financial transactions, verify your identity with government agencies, and much more. However, this is only the beginning of the road, and in the near future we will witness even more large-scale changes in this area.
One of the key trends will be the transition to the concept of “digital identity”. Instead of traditional physical documents, we will use digital identity cards. They will contain not only basic identification data, but also extended information about us, such as medical records, education, financial history, and more.
This approach will allow us to significantly simplify and speed up many everyday processes. Instead of having to carry a lot of different documents, we will be able to use a single digital identity to solve a wide range of tasks: from opening a bank account to receiving government services. This will not only increase the user experience, but also reduce the risks associated with loss or theft of documents.
However, the introduction of digital identities also raises security and privacy concerns. The concentration of such a large amount of personal data in digital format requires the development of reliable security systems that can withstand cyber threats and information leaks. The solution to this problem can be the use of advanced technologies: blockchain and biometric identification.
In addition, it is important to ensure that users have full control over their digital identities. People should be able to independently manage access to their data and decide what information they want to disclose in different situations. This will allow you to maintain a balance between the usability of digital identifiers and the protection of personal integrity.
What do you think about the future of e-ID?