Germany to introduce smart IDs November 2010
15 December, 2009
category: Biometrics, Contactless, Government
Germany’s Interior Ministry has announced that it will begin issuing smart ID cards to German citizens on November 1, 2010, according to DW-World. The encrypted contactless chips installed in the cards will contain ID information, biometric data–including optional fingerprints–and a digital passport photo.
Additionally, users have the option of enabling an electronic signature function, which would allow them to sign contracts or fill out official applications online.
The card can also be used to verify age at cigarette vending machines.
The information on the card is accessible only after the card owner enters a 6 digit PIN, enabling citizens to decide what data is shared.
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