The digital ID and personal data trade group publishes its thoughts about the challenges and opportunities involving blockchain-backed authentication efforts. The report—which includes case studies including one involving health care—comes at a time of increasing interest in blockchain digital ID programs.

Sure, digital IDs are the talk of the town, and continue to gain popularity among travelers, drivers and other citizens. But a new paper from ITW describes the enduring strength of physical IDs, and why they will continue to have a place in a mobile world.

A pilot involving Canada and the Netherlands seeks to build a base of travelers with “credibility” via the sharing of personal data secured by the technology that supports digital currency. The effort could lead to faster screenings and more attention paid to other, perhaps higher-risk passengers.

The dual interface cards, usable at existing payment terminals in the country, feature fingerprint authentication and no limits on battery life and transactions. Customers soon could be able to enroll in the program via self-service.

The International Biometrics and Identity Association issues a blistering white paper that seeks to refute criticisms leveled at the facial recognition authentication program being deployed in U.S airports. The paper covers the justification and efficiency of Biometric Exit, among other topics.

The IDEMIA-backed deployment in the state—the first statewide rollout of the technology—enables taxpayers to download an app and take a selfie to protect them from criminals seeking to steal refunds.

The new ActivID CMS 5.0, expected to be widely used by U.S. federal government workers, introduces a new level of portability in authentication. That can lead to reduced costs and make it easier for workers to access sensitive information via mobile devices.