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.

The authentication devices can do facial and iris scans, and save time and hassle not only for international travelers but customs agents. The deployment of the machines comes amid a general push for more efficient traveler authentication at the airport.

Digital IDs offer a promising solution for re-securing American identities: They can be verified offline using tamper-proof digital signatures, and securing access to digital credentials with PIN or biometrics enables strong protection against fraudsters.

Chinese citizens are required to use their national ID cards for a variety of tasks and service. A test set to expand across the country seeks to create virtual ID cards tied to the accounts of WeChat, one of the most popular apps in the world.

Yoti, a British startup that focuses on digital ID authentication via smartphones, says its system will help UK bars cut down on underage entries and make it more efficient for legitimate customers to start drinking. Next up? Supermarkets and dating sites.

The multi-billion-dollar deal comes amid a major push by Thales to beef up its digital security strength—and as Gemalto expands further into government and other services. The new ‘powerhouse’ will have expertise in such areas as biometrics and multifactor authentication.