Australia and the UK set the stage for mandatory digital IDs

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The push for digital IDs in Australia and the UK is gaining momentum, but the promise that these systems will remain voluntary is already under scrutiny. In Australia, the Digital ID Act, set to begin on December 1, 2024, strengthens the voluntary Digital ID Accreditation Scheme, expanding government control. Meanwhile, the UK’s Digital Information and Smart Data Bill has been introduced, claiming to keep digital identity verification voluntary. However, both systems raise major concerns about government overreach and future mandatory requirements.

Australia’s Digital ID system, while voluntary for now, gives the government sweeping powers to handle citizens’ sensitive data. The UK, though claiming to make its system optional, faces similar fears as the regulatory framework grows, alongside Ofcom’s expanded powers to enforce digital policies.

With Ofcom holding the power to impose heavy fines—up to £18 million, or 10% of revenue—for companies failing to comply, the future of digital identity systems is precarious. What may start as a voluntary choice could soon become an unavoidable requirement for accessing government services and the internet. The risk of further centralization of control over citizens’ personal information looms large, and these developments demand close scrutiny.

DIGITAL ID – Australia has gone from voluntary to mandatory in less than a year.

The UK govt has also stated Digital ID will be a choice … but how soon before access to govt services & internet under Ofcom’s new powers mean it’s no longer a choice?

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— Bernie (@Artemisfornow) November 25, 2024