Lionel Eddy | Updates

Meta smart glasses and privacy: How to spot the risks of public recording

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:10:22 -0400

A pair of ordinary-looking glasses can take a photo or record video with a touch. That’s the privacy tension at the heart of Meta smart glasses: people nearby may not realise a camera is active, even though the device has a recording light.

Meta says its white Capture LED is bright and designed to be seen. Still, a small light may escape notice because of distance, glare, viewing angle or simple distraction. The concern is not that recording is always invisible, but that a bystander may not get clear notice in every setting.

Understanding how the glasses work, what happens to recorded media and what documented tests have shown can help wearers and bystanders make better choices.

Meta smart glasses and privacy: why everyday design matters

Familiar frames, less familiar features

Ray-Ban Meta glasses look like everyday eyewear, but include cameras and connected features. A passer-by may see a person looking at them, not someone preparing to film. That gap between appearance and function can make it harder to judge whether a moment is being captured.

A phone held up to eye level gives people a familiar cue. Camera glasses don’t always do that. Someone wearing them can look towards a person during a conversation while operating the camera with a frame control.

The recording light offers notice, but may go unseen

Meta’s privacy page for AI glasses says the Capture LED blinks briefly for a photo and stays lit during video recording. Meta also says the camera switches off if the light is covered, damaged or physically altered.

The indicator is a real safeguard, but it cannot guarantee that everyone nearby will notice it. Its size, the distance between people and the lighting can all affect visibility. A person may also be focused on a conversation rather than the wearer’s glasses.

Being visible in public does not mean agreeing to be recorded, have footage saved or see it shared online. The law on filming varies by place and context; ethical questions about notice and consent remain separate.

The privacy risks go beyond taking a video

Bystanders can become part of the footage

People in shared spaces may be captured without knowing it: customers, workers, students, children or passers-by. Recording during a one-to-one conversation can feel especially intrusive when the wearer appears to be making eye contact.

The glasses can also capture voices as well as images. A short clip may include background talk or a sensitive moment that the wearer did not mean to record. People may find these signals harder to spot than someone holding up a phone.

Storage and sharing can extend the impact

A recording’s reach depends on what the wearer does next. Meta says media is captured on the glasses and sent to the companion app; users can choose to import content or turn on automatic import. Its supplemental privacy policy, effective 29 June 2026, says media may be processed by Meta when cloud processing is enabled, when a user interacts with Meta AI, or when media is uploaded to some Meta services.

That does not mean every recording is automatically posted or sent to the cloud. But once a clip is imported, edited or shared, it may travel beyond the original encounter and remain available to others.

Public rules and criticism reflect uncertainty

A BBC report on filming with Meta glasses described businesses and events in the UK setting rules against filming with the glasses. It also reported concerns from women’s rights campaigners about people not knowing when they are being recorded. These examples show public debate and local responses, not how often bystanders are filmed without noticing.

Better safeguards need more than an indicator

Notice should work from different angles

A recording light only helps if nearby people can see it and understand what it means. Designers can test visibility at different distances, in bright and dim settings, and from several angles, including with people who are not wearing the device.

Clearer visual signals or an audible cue could offer added notice. Those are design options, not claims about current features. Any safeguard should be tested with the people it aims to inform.

Data practices and accountability need to be clear

People should be able to find out what is captured, where it goes, how long it may remain and which choices affect processing. Meta’s current privacy materials and policy explain some of these paths, but users should check them as features and settings change.

Manufacturers shape device safeguards, while wearers decide when and where to record. Businesses, schools and venues can set rules for shared spaces, and regulators can address gaps in local law. Useful safeguards should cover notice, storage, access and ways to respond when recording causes harm.

Conclusion

Meta smart glasses combine familiar eyewear with cameras, so recording may be less obvious than it is with a phone. The Capture LED provides notice, but it cannot ensure every bystander sees it. I-XRAY showed how outside tools could add identity searches to captured images; it did not show that the glasses can identify people on their own.

Wear transparently, ask before recording when possible, and make space for people to raise concerns. Clear device safeguards and clear rules in shared spaces can help protect privacy as camera-equipped eyewear becomes more common.

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Digital ID and CBDC are a risk to democracy according to NZ research study

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:09:25 -0400

A discussion paper from New Zealand poses significant questions and fosters debate regarding the potential risks associated with the interoperability of digital Identity systems and central bank digital currencies.

[1] The Reserve Bank of New Zealand or RBNZ initiated a consultation regarding central bank digital currencies or CBDCs, [2] which concluded on July 26, 2024. This consultation is part of a larger, yet undisclosed, four-stage initiative. Details surrounding the campaign remain limited, including whether government ministers have been informed about it. The RBNZ is reportedly managing the entire process with a degree of secrecy. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has minimized the significant risks associated with central bank digital currencies that pose challenges for democratic societies. The RBNZ refers to CBDCs as “digital cash,” which may obscure the fundamental differences between funds held in bank accounts and CBDCs.

The article [3] titled Stepping Back from the Brink: The Programmable Ledger. Four democratic risks that arise when Digital IDs are coupled to Central Bank Digital Currencies explores the potential broader implications if the Reserve Bank of New Zealand gains the authority to issue central bank digital currencies Physicians and Scientists for Global Responsibility New Zealand Charitable Trust or PSGRNZ responded to the RBNZ consolation [4] by highlighting a critical concern revolving around the potential for controlling individuals by limiting their access to digital currency.

The organization argues that CBDCs are expected to be programmable and linked to a person's digital identity. This programmability is facilitated by smart contracts, which are sets of executable codes that can activate upon the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. “The RBNZ’s policy papers fail to address these wider governance concerns. There has been a remarkable absence of analysis or review by academic or legal experts that considers why central bank digital cash may effectively erode the checks and balances, the necessary public accountability, that is essential for a functioning democracy,” the organization said in the letter.

There appears to be a significant lack of public trust in countries such as China and Nigeria, CBDCs have been introduced. Certain Chinese cities [5] have initiated payments to state employees using the country's digital currency; however, many of these early adopters convert the funds to cash almost immediately. In 2023, Nigerians [6] expressed their discontent over their nation's cash shortage, while also voicing objections to the government's introduction of a central bank digital currency. An Australian trial [7] has revealed that cashless economies can negatively affect low-income individuals, raising their compliance burdens and reducing their autonomy. Authorities may downplay the detrimental impact on these targeted groups, [8] even in the context of parliamentary inquiries. The Australian trial did not include programmable payments; however, automated transactions and operations related to CBDCs can be integrated to focus on specific groups. This integration, referred to as 'composability,' can be executed through self-executing smart contracts. Such capabilities allow for significant control over CBDCs in terms of scalability and speed.

Earlier in 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia [9] concluded that there is a lack of public interest to justify the implementation of a central bank digital currency, citing that current payment systems sufficiently address the requirements of households. On page 5, [10] titled "Results from Direct Public Engagement," the consultation revealed several recurring themes regarding Australians' interactions with the payments system and their opinions on a potential retail CBDC. The findings indicated that Australians generally hold a favorable view of the payments system, which they believe adequately meets their daily payment needs. Cash continues to be regarded as an important option for addressing these payment requirements. Notably, cash is perceived as a straightforward and dependable payment method, particularly for those who prefer it over more complex digital solutions. It is also widely considered a crucial backup payment method in situations such as emergencies, technology failures, and climate-related events.

Physicians and Scientists for Global Responsibility New Zealand Charitable Trust also points out that [11] the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has not received formal authorization or reached a definitive conclusion regarding the issuance of a CBDC, and any possible implementation is anticipated to occur around 2030. A parliamentary vote will follow a six-year observation period assessing the impact on other jurisdictions, including any effects on rights and freedoms. Additional recommendations from PSGRNZ entail ensuring that the government does not exclusively support Digital IDs, but also accepts passports and driver's licenses for access to government services and employment. Furthermore, a review of the extensive powers of the Department of Internal Affairs is necessary to evaluate the potential for information-sharing agreements between government agencies related to Digital IDs and CBDCs functionality, which could be implemented on a larger scale to achieve political objectives.

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India makes digital ID mandatory for subsidised LPG refills

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:08:38 -0400

As of October 1, beneficiaries who were previously registered will be required to undergo Biometric Aadhaar Authentication to receive subsidized liquid petroleum gas for household use.

The Indian government has announced that their digital ID system the [1] Biometric Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory [2] for subsidized domestic LPG refills starting October 1 of this year. To book refills at the regulated retail selling price with the applicable subsidy, domestic LPG consumers must complete the Biometric Aadhaar authentication process. The government subsidizes household cooking fuel through the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which distributes fuel directly to beneficiaries, and the Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh programme, which deposits subsidies directly into the bank accounts of recipients. Authentication for these programmes can be conducted at fuel distributor shops, via mobile apps, or through home-visit services.

In 2015, the Ministry [3] announced that Aadhaar was not required to receive subsidies, reiterating that distributors could not deny refills to customers solely due to the absence of Aadhaar. The government instructed that any related complaints should be addressed promptly, along with appropriate actions against any distributor found in violation of this directive. “The Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas Shri Dharmendra Pradhan informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply today that Aadhaar card is not mandatory for availing or continuance of LPG refill or LPG connection. OMCs have been directed that blocking of refills of Non Cash Transfer Compliant customers at local level by LPG distributors is not permitted and complaints in this regard should be immediately taken up and resolved along with necessary action against the erring distributor as deemed fit,” said the Ministry in the statement.

In October 2023, the Indian government [4] started to promote the use of Biometric Aadhaar Authentication by fuel companies to conduct KYC checks for LPG subsidy recipients under the PMUY and PAHAL initiatives. A 2024 announcement stated that biometric identity verification enhanced the government's capacity to identify and assist intended beneficiaries. “All domestic LPG Consumers are encouraged to undergo biometric Aadhaar authentication using any of the available methods at their convenience. This flexible approach ensures that consumers can choose the method and timing that best suits their individual preference and circumstances. Significant numbers of Biometric Aadhaar Authentications were successfully conducted during Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra camps. Authentication activities are being undertaken at the customer’s doorstep as a part of LPG Safety Inspections/Camps which are currently undergoing. No service or benefit has been stopped for consumers whose biometric authentication has not been completed,” said government said in the statement.

The Ministry employed Aadhaar numbers, bank account information, and additional data to streamline its database of eligible LPG subsidy recipients last year, [5] leading to the deactivation of 40 million accounts. By 2025, two-thirds of PMUY beneficiaries had undergone authentication using Aadhaar biometrics, with biometrics becoming compulsory for new beneficiaries. Aadhaar is mandatory for the PM-KISAN scheme, which offers financial support to farmers, and [6] is currently utilized in nearly all transactions by the national social safety programme for the direct distribution of grains to those in need. The statement detailed the outcomes and progress of the country's digital agriculture initiatives, evaluated as of 2025, highlights several key advancements. These initiatives have improved the management of direct benefit transfer schemes for farmers, enhanced procurement and credit access, and bolstered disaster relief efforts.

Maharashtra is noted as a successful example of AgriStack implementation, where the government has transferred over 14,000 crore rupees 89 lakh farmers with Aadhaar-linked bank accounts to address Kharif 2025 crop losses. Additionally, the state has introduced AI-based advisory and credit access support. Since April 2025, obtaining [7] a farmer ID has been a mandatory requirement for farmers seeking government subsidies. The digital farmer ID, referred to as Kisan Pehchaan Patra or Kisan card, is connected to the Aadhaar biometric system and aims to function as a unified identity for agricultural stakeholders. This identity is issued by AgriStack and enables farmers to access benefits from various central and state government schemes, as well as affordable credit options and targeted advice.

Devendra Fadnavis, who [8] is the Chief Minister directed the agriculture department to implement a system for issuing digital IDs to farmers. This initiative, known as Agri Stack, provides farmers with unique digital IDs and is part of a broader government effort to facilitate easier access to affordable credit, quality agricultural inputs, and tailored advice, ultimately enhancing the agricultural sector and improving outcomes for farmers across the country.

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France expands digital ID to overseas territories

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:07:52 -0400

The French government has introduced a new process designed to simplify the certification of digital identities for French nationals residing in French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna.

The newly introduced system enables users to update the application and create a secure QR code that can be verified at local town halls. Upon scanning, the digital identity is activated within the app. The process necessitates [1] the possession of the latest biometric ID card featuring recorded fingerprint biometrics, an NFC-enabled smartphone, and validation of adulthood. Validation is expected to take between 24 to 48 hours, with complete activation finalized within a week. Historically, French citizens residing outside mainland France had to depend on FranceConnect or postal methods for certification, which were not consistently accessible.

The introduction of online proxy voting through [2] the France Identité app is expected to facilitate the voting process for citizens residing far from polling stations. To utilize this service, users are required to download or update the France Identité app. As of 2026, [3] France Identité boasts over 4 million users. This government mobile application enables citizens to store their ID cards, driving licenses, and vehicle documents on their smartphones. In May, the app's sandbox version was launched for iOS, allowing early testers to trial builds on both Android and iOS platforms, thereby validating the end-to-end processes.

The national digital identity application is set to function as [4] the nation’s EUDI Wallet. The successful validation of [5] Namirial for interoperability with France Identité underscores this development, as the "France Identité Ready" badge signifies compliance with the French EUDI Wallet ecosystem and anticipated EU standards. Florent Tournois, who [6] is the Director of Identity at France Identité said, “The European digital identity wallet is one of the most ambitious digital projects for Europe. Its success will depend not only on public initiatives but also on the ability of private companies and intermediaries to transform this infrastructure into concrete services that citizens can use in their daily lives. That is why it is important to recognize organizations that are already demonstrating interoperability with France Identité and helping to bridge the gap between regulatory ambitions and actual adoption.”

Pierre Feligioni, who [7] is the Deputy CEO Namirial also said, “European digital identity can only function if all public and private stakeholders adopt truly interoperable standards. This recognition by the France Identité ecosystem and the results achieved in European tests confirm our commitment to playing a leading role in building a trusted infrastructure on a European scale.” However, in April 2026, the French government has confirmed that a database housing identity document records experienced a breach affecting millions of entries containing personal information. The cyberattack on France Titres’ infrastructure resulted in the theft of approximately 18 to 19 million records related to identity credentials, including biometric passports, national ID cards, and driver’s licenses. This number represents around one third of the adult population in France.

Hackers identified as “breach3d” and “ExtaseHunters” have announced a data breach, claiming to sell the stolen records on a hacker forum, [8] according to Cybernews. The compromised information reportedly includes full names, email addresses, dates of birth, and unique identifiers for each account. Additionally, some records contain home addresses and phone numbers. France Titres has confirmed that it reported the recent incident to the CNIL, France’s data protection authority. The official communication highlights an increased risk of phishing and fraudulent attacks. However, the agency states that the information compromised does not provide access to the ants.gouv.fr portal from which it was taken.

Known formally as the National Agency for Secure Titles or ANTS, France Titres refrained from confirming reports of a breach involving 12 to 13 million ID records that occurred in September 2025. The timing of this latest breach is notable, as the country has been working with numerous organizations to facilitate the launch of the EU Digital Identity Wallet, [9] with a planned rollout set for 2027.

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Most Australian citizens not interested in CBDC admits central bank

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:07:00 -0400

The Reserve Bank of Australia has determined that there is insufficient public interest to warrant the introduction of a central bank digital currency, as existing payment systems adequately meet the needs of households.

The evaluation relies on a public consultation which surveyed Australians regarding their payment requirements and opinions on a prospective retail central bank digital currency or CBDC. This aligns with the findings of [1] a joint paper published in 2024 by the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Treasury, addressing the implications of a CBDC and the future landscape of digital currency in Australia. In the wholesale sector, the RBA has analyzed the outcomes of Project Acacia, a national research initiative focused on the role of digital money in wholesale tokenized asset markets.

The Reserve Bank of Australia and the Treasury have released an update [2] titled Retail Central Bank Digital Currency in the Australian Context, which coincides with their efforts to promote innovation in wholesale finance. “Digital technologies are changing the way Australians make and receive payments. As new forms of money emerge around the world, policymakers are considering whether the forms of money currently available to households and businesses will continue to meet the needs of the community. In this context, the Reserve Bank of Australia and Australian Treasury have continued to examine the potential role of a retail central bank digital currency in the Australian economy. Recent research indicates that Australians continue to be well served by the current retail payment system alongside ongoing innovation in digital finance. The RBA and Treasury maintain that there is currently no clear public interest case for issuing a retail CBDC in Australia, reaffirming the assessment reached in the 2024 RBA–Treasury White Paper,” the central bank sated in their Executive Summary.

On page 5 titled Results from Direct Public Engagement, the consultation identified multiple recurring themes related to Australians' experiences with the payments system and their perspectives on a potential retail CBDC. Australians generally expressed a positive view of the payments system, indicating that it adequately fulfills their everyday payment requirements and that cash remains significant for addressing the payment needs of Australians. “Cash remains highly valued as a simple and reliable payment option, particularly as an alternative to complex digital payments for some individuals. Cash was also widely viewed as an essential back-up payment method during emergencies, technology outages and climate events. Views on a potential offline capability for a retail CBDC, which would allow users to make digital payments without a network connection and thereby retain a core attribute of cash, were mixed. Regional Australians were more likely to feel it offered meaningful value, however, many continued to prefer cash, viewing it as a more reliable option. These views suggest that though offline payments could address some resilience concerns, it may not be sufficient to drive widespread adoption of a retail CBDC. Concerns that a retail CBDC might result in a decline in physical cash were common,” said the RBA.

The assessment is based on a public consultation carried out by Verian Group, which sought input from Australians regarding their payment needs and perspectives on a possible retail central bank digital currency. The findings from this consultation are detailed in the independent report [3] titled Unmet Payment Needs and Digital Money. Throughout the project, 24 use cases were developed and tested, with 19 of these involving real-world transactions across various asset classes, including fixed income, private markets, and trade receivables. In response to this research, the central bank has initiated a consultation regarding the role of its high-value settlement system in the evolution of a tokenised ecosystem.

The consultation aims to gather opinions on how the RBA’s settlement [4] services could facilitate the development and expansion of tokenised asset markets and tokenised private money in Australia. The RBA has [5] stated that this consultation is one of several initiatives outlined in Project Acacia which is intended to lay the groundwork for a future programme aimed at ensuring that Australia’s money, payments, and settlement systems remain relevant and effective. The consultation [6] will remain open until 30 October 2026.

In November 2021 Tony Richards, who [7] was previously Department Head at the Reserve Bank of Australia, in his address [8] titled ‘The Future of Payments: Cryptocurrencies, Stablecoins or Central Bank Digital Currencies?’, stated that the central bank plans to collaborate with the CRC to investigate the potential opportunities related to the digitization of assets. This initiative is supported by 28 founding entities of the center and is funded by A$60 million in federal financial backing.

Richards stated that the Reserve Bank of Australia intends to release a report soon detailing its collaboration with four external entities on the technical aspects of wholesale central bank digital currencies, which are designed for settling interbank transfers and related wholesale transactions. However, he expressed a cautious perspective on CBDCs, noting that his colleagues at the central bank remain unconvinced that a compelling policy argument for a CBDC has yet been established in Australia.

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Bangladesh to roll out digital ID cards to newborn babies

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 06:05:24 -0400

The government of Bangladesh has introduced a proposal to provide every citizen with a lifelong, integrated digital identity starting at birth. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive framework that will ultimately encompass healthcare, education, national identity cards and passports within a single digital system.

Bangladesh is poised [1] to implement a single lifelong digital ID card for all citizens including newborns, as part of an initiative to replace the existing fragmented identification system. This change aims to simplify access to government services by eliminating the need for individuals to repeatedly provide the same personal information. The proposed Unified Digital Identity, [2] known as One-ID, is intended to be utilized across various services, including healthcare, education, welfare programmes, and digital transactions, as reported by Prothom Alo.

Under this initiative, each citizen will be assigned a unique and permanent identity from birth that will remain with them for their entire life. This effort represents a significant transformation of Bangladesh’s current identification framework, which relies on multiple documents and identification numbers for different purposes. Currently, children are issued birth registration certificates, while National Identity Cards are typically provided upon reaching the age of 18. Passports, driving licenses, and Taxpayer Identification Numbers are managed through separate systems.

In September 2026, the government [3] announced a plan to establish an integrated digital state by implementing a One Citizen-One ID-One Digital Wallet system. This system will allow citizens to access a variety of public and private services through a unified digital identity. This initiative is a component of the government's larger strategy to enhance the ICT and telecommunications sector, positioning it as a significant contributor to the economy, with the aim of increasing its share of the country's GDP to 10% within the next 5 years. The government has also committed to providing various types of cards, including Family Cards, Health Cards, Probashi Cards, and Farmer Cards.

[4] The Family Card initiative will require an investment of Tk 19.06 billion for the production and data collection associated with the cards. The Farmer Card initiative will necessitate a budget of Tk 6.81 billion. The financial requirements for the Probashi Card and Health Card programmes have yet to be established. Farzana Sharmin who [5] is the Minister for Social Welfare, also announced that the government [6] has established a goal to include 1.61 crore families in its family card programme by 2030.

However, the government is experiencing financial limitations. There is significant pressure for increased expenditure across multiple sectors, while revenue collection remains low. In this context, concerns have been raised regarding the feasibility of initiating a project with an estimated cost of nearly Tk 100 billion. Conversely, some stakeholders argue that the project is planned for implementation over 5 years, suggesting that the financial constraints facing the country may not persist indefinitely.

The National Identity Card serves as the primary identification [7] document for Bangladeshi citizens, enabling access to various essential services on a daily basis. However, the country’s identity landscape continues to be fragmented. Citizens must rely on various registries and navigate separate identity services to obtain documents such as birth certificates, national identification cards, and passports, which frequently operate independently of one another. As the government increases the scope of digital public services and social protection programs, the shortcomings of this fragmented approach have become clear.

The National Identity Registration Authority Ordinance, enacted by the caretaker government in 2008, stipulates [8] that voter cards issued by the Electoral Commission would serve as National Identification cards. These cards are necessary for accessing 22 services, including the issuance and renewal of passports, driving licenses, trade licenses, as well as for opening bank accounts and registering mobile phones. This ordinance was subsequently transformed into the National Identity Registration Act in 2010.

In April 2011, the Identification System for Enhancing Access to Services project [9] was launched with the support of the World Bank, with the objective of issuing smart National Identification cards to replace the existing paper-laminated cards. The IDEA project has connected the central NID database with both public and private service providers to facilitate automation and enhance the security of electronic Know Your Customer or e-KYC and identity authentication processes.

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Gambian government to rollout digital ID nationwide

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 06:51:05 -0400

The government of Gambia has initiated the enrolment process for the new biometric national ID card for citizens in the capital, marking the beginning of the first phase of the programme.

Residents of the Greater Banjul area are currently receiving services, with staff providing assistance at specific registration centres, [1] as stated in a recent announcement from the Ministry of Information. Adama Barrow, [2] who is the Gambian President, officiated a ceremony [3] to launch the new ID system, developed by Margins ID Systems Ltd, a subsidiary of Ghana's Margins ID Group. President Barrow said, “From today, Gambians age 18 years and above can enrol and receive their national identity card instantly. The card has secure biometric and public key infrastructure, fully compliant with ECOWAS and ICAO standards. This developer reflects the principle that the identity of Gambians belongs to The Gambia. Every item of data collected remains the property of the government and the people of The Gambia. It is operated on infrastructure on our soil, and for a defined period, there will be full competence transfer entirely to the state.”

Moses Baiden, who [4] is the CEO of Margins ID Group also said, “It is quite satisfying, and today we actualize a dream that we’ve been pursuing with you since we started about five years ago. The data centre that belongs to the people of Gambia is going to form the foundation of NIMS, to drive Gambia into the new digital economy. With this digital platform, Africa can escape the legacy systems of the previous revolution that we have missed, and allow us to ascend as modern nations into the new world without any hindrances. We are happy to join the government of Gambia and the President of Gambia to conceptualize, to design, to finance, and to operationalize such a fantastic system.”

The company is tasked, under a Public-Private Partnership framework, with modernizing the infrastructure, managing it for several years, and subsequently transferring it to the government. The PPP model is becoming more common in the development of digital public infrastructure or DPI projects. Gambia introduced the new ID system that represents a significant departure from the previous one, characterized by fragmentation, diminished trust, and contractual challenges. The government states that this new system aligns with a growing global trend among nations to unify identity systems in order to enhance interoperability and security.

Officials are encouraging citizens to participate in the enrolment process for the ID card, which they assert will serve as a vital resource for accessing various public and private sector services, as well as supporting the country's national development objectives. On May 2024 a validation workshop for Gambia's national digital ID and Digital Transformation Strategy for 2023-2028 was held [5] by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. The workshop included two sets of group discussions aimed at refining and validating the action plans for both the digital ID and Digital Transformation strategies.

A national digital ID strategy [6] report was also released, by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy who argues there is a strong case for digital ID, “This document describes the Government's strategy to create a national digital ID system in Gambia. The digital ID will establish a digital identity consisting of a minimum set of data, including a unique number, biographical data and biometric information. Biometric data will prevent duplicate registration for services. The system will enable citizens and residents to access a wide range of public and private services reliably. It will also help the private sector and government reduce fraud and fake identities and cut transaction costs in verifying identities. International studies show that identity systems can significantly support economic growth and access to financial services,” stated the Executive Summary.

On February 16 2026, the Gambian government announced [7] the digitization of payments for national identity cards and residential permits. This initiative is intended to eliminate cash transactions at major processing centres, decrease-waiting times, and improve accountability in the management of public finances. Sering Modou Njie, [8] who is the Foreign Affairs Minister said, “This is part of our broader reforms for public finance management. By shifting to digital payments, we aim to cut down on long waiting times, minimize cash-handling risks, and promote greater transparency and efficiency in government services.”

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Norway to regulate the use of smart glasses

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 06:50:11 -0400

Norwegian officials have announced plans to regulate the use of smart glasses and similar devices, while also contemplating a ban on features that facilitate facial recognition in public areas.

Norway has [1] announced plans to regulate the use of smart glasses and similar devices, with a potential ban on features that facilitate facial recognition in public spaces. Smart glasses enable users to capture photos and videos, listen to music, make phone calls, translate foreign signs, project text or maps into their line of sight, and engage with an integrated AI assistant. Smart glasses enable users to capture photos and videos, listen to music, conduct phone calls, translate foreign language signs, project text or maps into their field of vision, and engage with an integrated AI assistant.

Karianne Tung [2] who is the Digitalisation Minister, announced plans to establish an expert group to provide guidance to the government on enhancing consumer protection in relation to new technologies. Additionally, she encouraged both the public and private sectors to develop their own guidelines. “We can see that people's private lives and privacy are coming under pressure from new technology, and I therefore want to regulate smart glasses and similar devices more strictly than today. This could, for example, mean banning features such as facial recognition of other people in public spaces,” said Tung. “There is a clear trend that artificial intelligence is being combined with cameras and microphones that are built into things like glasses, earbuds, caps, and other items we use in everyday life. We must avoid this equipment being used to monitor other people in public spaces.”

Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad, who [3] is the director of digital policy at the Norwegian Consumer Council, expressed support for [4] a potential ban on facial recognition in public spaces. However, he highlighted that this issue is not the sole concern associated with the glasses. Norway’s proposal signals a significant change in the adoption of smart glasses, which are transitioning from experimental technology to widespread consumer products. This development brings forth important considerations regarding biometric surveillance, workplace privacy, and the adequacy of current laws to manage continuously operating AI cameras.

Norway's proposed restrictions highlight the shifting discussion regarding surveillance from the accuracy of facial recognition technology to the structure of routine monitoring. Smart glasses exemplify a larger trend where cameras, artificial intelligence, and biometric identification are transitioning from regulated settings to everyday consumer products. As wearable AI technology grows more prevalent, governments and employers will confront the challenge of whether current privacy legislation is adequate in a landscape where individuals can effectively carry an ambient biometric sensor on their person.

In July 2026, the New York State Office of Court Administration implemented a prohibition on the use of smart glasses equipped with a camera, microphone, or computer in state, county, town, and village courts. New York is the first state to enact this ban. In a memorandum dated July 1, [5] the court administration stated that the ban prohibits surreptitious recording, aligning with the New York State Civil Rights Law.

This policy applies to everyone entering a courtroom in New York State, including attorneys, litigants, witnesses, family members, court employees, and members of the public. Individuals bringing smart glasses to a court facility are required to surrender them to uniformed court officers for safekeeping. Those with prescription lenses are advised to bring a standard pair of glasses for use within the court building. The California Senate is reviewing [6] a proposed bill that would create criminal penalties for the use of smart glasses to record in areas of a business where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, unless explicit consent is obtained.

The Bill [7] is introduced by Senator Eloise Reyes, “This bill would additionally prohibit a person from operating a wearable recording device, as defined, to capture sound or video of any other person in any area within a place of business, as defined, where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy unless the person operating the device has the explicit consent of that person to capture sound or video of that person. The bill would prohibit a person from disabling any light, sound, or other indicator on a wearable recording device that indicates that the device is capturing sound or video. The bill would exempt from these provisions the use of hearing aids, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and similar devices by persons with impaired hearing or communication disorders when used for the purpose of overcoming the impairment or disorder to permit the hearing of sounds ordinarily audible to the human ear or to support communication with the person or by persons with a disability if the device or technology is used for the purpose of enabling a person’s access to, or participation in, activities of daily living or to support a person’s functional needs related to the disability or condition,” said Reyes.

On August 11, 2026 it was reported [8] that Courts in England and Wales have implemented a ban on Meta glasses, aligning with similar prohibitions from various restaurants, theatres, and pubs. His Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Service or HMCTS, overseeing all criminal, civil, and family courts in the regions, has stated that Meta glasses will be confiscated from individuals entering its facilities. In the UK, capturing images or videos within court buildings is prohibited without official permission and may result in contempt of court charges. Although lawyers and the public can enter courts with smartphones capable of recording audio and video, HMCTS clarified that this exception does not extend to smart glasses.

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US Senator launches investigation into flock cameras amidst privacy concerns

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 06:49:26 -0400

Senator Josh Hawley has initiated an investigation into Flock Safety due to concerns that the company's network of traffic cameras may have been misused by law enforcement to unjustly monitor individuals.

Josh Hawley, who [1] is US Senator for Missouri, is seeking [clarification from Flock Safety regarding [2] the company's growing network of AI-driven cameras and whether it has contributed to the establishment of a searchable national database tracking the movements of Americans, as various communities nationwide discontinue the use of the technology due to increasing privacy issues. Hawley’s investigation is comes following allegations [3] that officers may have misused the cameras to stalk women, as well as concerns [4] that the technology has been linked to false arrests.

In [5] a letter addressed to Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley, Josh Hawley, the chair of the Judiciary subcommittee on crime and counterterrorism, stated that Congress never authorized the network your industry has built. “As Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, I am investigating Flock Safety’s collection, retention, and dissemination of the data generated by its artificial intelligence surveillance cameras. In a few short years, Flock has assembled an unprecedented national surveillance network. Your company boasts more than 120,000 cameras across 49 states and more than 20 billion vehicle scans every month. The overwhelming majority of the Americans captured in those records did nothing wrong. Instead of serving discrete local investigations, as contemplated by our constitutional processes and safeguards, these camera networks harness artificial intelligence to pool what they capture into a national database that customers can search,” said Hawley.

On August 4, 2026 Josh Hawley convened a hearing to investigate the questionable practices associated [6] with AI surveillance pricing and the collection of consumer data by major corporations, which he argues could [7] be misleading for working Americans. “Hardly a day goes by in this town, without some booster of AI talking about how it’s going to transform the American economy for the better, the question is whose betterment will this transformation lead to? … We’re here today to talk about one of the effects of this AI boom: the partnership between the AI industry and some of the biggest corporations in America to effectively scam consumers out of every last dollar they have in order to buy products that they need and rely on … This is one of the biggest scams in American history. This marriage between the AI industry and these mega corporations, and they’re trying to pull it off against every American consumer. AI surveillance pricing is the unholy trinity of everything Americans hate: spying on people, ripping them off, and taking away jobs,” said Hawley to the Senate.

More [8] than 100 cities across the US are opting against Flock cameras due to escalating privacy and safety concerns regarding the company’s extensive network of automatic license plate readers. Flock, which provides a system comprising thousands of cameras capable of instant license plate recognition, has faced criticism for its wide-reaching network, which operates in every state except Alaska. While proponents argue that the cameras aid in apprehending criminals, detractors contend that the company’s practices resemble invasive surveillance and infringe on the Fourth Amendment. Additionally, there have been accounts of law enforcement officials misusing the system to track personal relationships.

A database [9] published by the non-profit Institute for Justice indicates that 105 local governments in the US have either canceled or failed to renew their automatic license plate recognition contracts since the start of 2025. Michael Soyfer, who [10] is an attorney with the Institute for Justice said, “Local governments have good reasons to want to stem the proliferation of these mass surveillance tools. Rather than narrowly target criminals, ALPRs collect troves of data on ordinary people’s movements and compile them in a database officers can freely access on demand. That has predictably led to widespread abuse, which will continue until we implement robust safeguards like a warrant requirement.”

Automated license plate readers were marketed to American communities as specialized devices aimed at combating car theft and aiding in the search for missing persons. However, [11] the implementation of these systems has evolved into a more extensive and concerning surveillance network. These AI-powered cameras capture and record the movements of all motorists, regardless of any criminal suspicion. Flock Safety and similar companies have deployed ALPRs across numerous communities, effectively creating large-scale surveillance frameworks capable of tracking individuals' locations and travel patterns, all without the requirement of a warrant.

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Nigerian government to link people’s home address to digital ID system

Lionel Eddy — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 06:48:43 -0400

Nigeria's federal government is set to standardize physical addresses and connect them to digital identities through a newly approved regulatory framework by the National Addressing Council. The initiative aims to enhance planning, security, financial inclusion, and emergency response efforts.

A digital addressing system is set to be developed and integrated with current government databases, including the digital identity database managed by the National Identity Management Commission, to ensure secure connections between verified addresses, [1] according to a report by The Whistler.

Kashim Shettima, who [2] is the Nigerian Vice President emphasized the importance of intercommunication among public systems to enhance their utility, noting that the new addressing system should link with various components of the nation's digital public infrastructure or DPI. “And the strength of a modern addressing system lies in its ability to speak to other public systems. Our digital addressing framework must connect intelligently with other digital identity, government databases and wider digital public infrastructure. When a verified identity can be linked securely to a verified address, the gains extend across financial inclusion, social interventions, logistics, planning and emergency response,” said Shettima.

“The Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is to serve as secretariat of the council. It must guide technical implementation, systems integration, interoperability and standards. NIMC has an essential responsibility in addressing individual verification and authentication, while CAC must support verification of business addresses. NIPOST remains indispensable for postcode administration and postal infrastructure.

[3] The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation oversees technical implementation, system integration, ensures interoperability, and establishes standards. The National Identity Management Commission is tasked with identity verification and authentication, while the Corporate Affairs Commission is responsible for supporting business address verification.

Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, [4] who is the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation said, “Before now, it was sort of crisis management but with coordination, we are now working as one nation and one people focused on doing this very critical assignment that should have been done decades ago standardising address, proof of address and digital address. Your Excellency and members of Council, let me say that the onerous role you vested on me, I will discharge with discipline, sense of purpose and unity.”

In July 2026, Nigeria’s National Identity Management Commission has announced that it has received new presidential directives to ensure that [5] the National Identification Number is issued to every Nigerian by the end of the year. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, who [6] is the Director General of the commission, shared this [7] information during an appearance on local Channels Television. The announcement aligns with ongoing efforts by the government to integrate the National Identification Number into various sectors, aiming to transition from simply having digital public infrastructure to ensuring it effectively supports public service delivery.

The National Identity Management Commission is collaborating with partners on [8] the World Bank-supported Identification for Development project to expedite nationwide enrolment. “The President has given us till the end of this year to make sure that we capture every single Nigerian,” said Coker-Odusote. “What we have done is we have partnered through the World Bank ID4D project with front-end partners. They are part of the digital identity ecosystem. These are private citizens that we’ve enabled and given jobs to enrol citizens on our behalf. That’s why it’s called a unique identifier, so that you’re only enrolled once,”

Coker-Odusote highlighted that the true population of Nigeria is still uncertain, with estimates varying between 200 million and 250 million. This situation underscores the necessity of establishing a comprehensive identity database for effective national planning. “It is estimated that we’re 200 million. When we’re done enrolling, we will then know the actual numbers that we have. Some estimates say 230 million, while a few people say 250 million. Your identity is basically the foundation for effective governance and service delivery. How can you plan if you don’t know the total number of persons that you have? We have been mandated by Mr President to go down to the community levels to enrol every single Nigerian.”

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Japanese government merges biometric portal with unified digital ID platform

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:34:44 -0400

The Digital Agency of Japan has initiated the My Number App, which serves as a platform for accessing government services and facilitating identity verification.

The application merges the functionalities of the existing Digital Authentication App and the My Number Portal App, allowing individuals to utilize [1] their My Number Card Japan’s personal identification card linked to a unique 12-digit national identification number for the purposes of identity verification, access to administrative procedures such as address changes or passport applications, and provision of electronic signatures, all within a single application.

Current users of the Myna Portal application [2] are able to transition to the new service seamlessly by updating the application. Individuals who do not possess the application may obtain the My Number App from a designated app store. As reported by BigGo Finance, the newly developed application [3] is designed to support the My Number Card on iPhone and the electronic certificate for Android devices, enabling identity verification via biometric authentication without the necessity of physically presenting the card.

In 2023, My Number [4] was designed to issue a digital ID card to every resident, facilitating access to a range of government services while serving as a replacement for health insurance cards. One application of these cards is to allow residents to request that administrative documents be printed at convenience stores or government offices. However, the implementation of this scheme has been associated with recurrent data breaches, wherein residents have received documents that contain personal information belonging to others.

Fujitsu has acknowledged that on June 28, a local governmental authority issued a resident card, which [5] was subsequently collected by an individual who discovered that the card contained personal information pertaining to a different individual. “We sincerely apologize once again for the repeated errors in issuing certificates due to the ‘Fujitsu MICJET Convenience Store Issuance’ system provided by Fujitsu Japan Limited which have caused considerable inconvenience and concern to local governments and users of the Service. Regarding the service in question, we conducted a re-inspection that involved a system shutdown, and we informed you that it was completed on June 17th. However, on June 28th, a new erroneous certificate was issued to a municipality using the service. Details are as follows,” said Fujitsu.

In an article [6] by Sarah Hilton for the Rest of World, Japan’s digital ID programme [7] was described as a complicated mess, “An aspirational digital identity project is dragging down the likability of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. In a Kyodo News poll from July 16, the approval rating for the Kishida government slid to around 34%, with the dissatisfaction linked to a key issue: errors with Japan’s My Number identification system,” said Hilton. “In Japan, many administrative errands are done in person: banking, tax filing, paperwork for moving house, you name it. The My Number ID card, which allows digital verification, moves some of this burden online. But since its launch in 2015, no politician has been able to make it stick just 15% of the population used it in 2019, partly due to data privacy concerns.”

In July 2026, a pilot programme designed to assess the technical feasibility of cross-border issuance and verification of [8] academic credentials between Japan and European Union countries through digital identity wallets has been deemed successful. “The pilot has successfully demonstrated that cross-border digital credential exchange can be achieved using established international standards between countries or regions with different technical and regulatory frameworks. It has shown that the technical framework for secure, privacy-preserving credential presentation and issuance is viable for cross-border scenarios. International interoperability can be ensured through existing architectures, even if parties have different governance frameworks,” said the EU Commission.

The EU also published [9] a report outlining the pilot's objectives, which included evaluating the alignment of digital ID interoperability standards between Japan and the EU. Utilizing the EUDI wallet prototype, the initiative investigated practical applications in areas such as opening bank accounts and facilitating student exchanges, underscoring its potential benefits for both economic and social interactions. According to the report, the pilot programme utilizing open standards has demonstrated that digital identity credentials issued through the European Digital Identity Wallet and Japan's My Number Card system can be issued, stored, presented, and verified across various countries and regions. Another significant finding is that the cross-border application of digital identity systems is technically feasible, even when governance frameworks and technical architectures differ significantly. In recent years, Japan has undergone a major architectural transformation, evolving the My Number Card from a government credential into a platform for private sector services.

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Egyptian government plans to build Smart Cities by 2050

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:32:59 -0400

As part of its Egypt Vision 2030 Initiative, the Egyptian government has announced plans to construct new Smart Cities by the year 2050.

[1] The Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities announced that Egypt has developed Smart Cities, which [2] are recognized as key components of modern urban development in the country. He noted that the Egyptian government has implemented approximately 22 Smart Cities. During his address at the launch of the National Strategy for Smart Cities in Egypt, the Minister highlighted the government's success in this area, mentioning that the Prime Minister regularly monitors the progress of related projects. He emphasized that, for the first time in Egypt, there are smart facilities in a new city that can be controlled remotely.

There have been suggestions that [3] the initiative should be tested in smaller locations before being implemented in larger cities like Cairo or Alexandria. This concern highlights the scale of Egypt's urban challenges, which include rapid population growth, housing shortages, and a significant number of informal settlements. Additionally, the country faces a persistent issue with uneven population distribution. Currently, over 95% of Egyptians reside on a small percentage of the total land area, primarily concentrated along the fertile Nile Valley and Delta.

Ahmed Abdelwahab, [4] who is the Infrastructure General Manager for the Egypt Post, says the government is aiming to provide housing for 40 million people in new Smart Cities by 2050 and to reach this objective, there will be a strong focus on developing smart and sustainable public infrastructure. “As part of its Egypt Vision 2030 Initiative, the government plans to invest US$20 billion in housing 40 million people in new smart cities by 2050. Achieving such a goal, though, will require prioritising the development of a smart, sustainable public infrastructure, including transport, energy, and waste management systems. While some cities have successfully tapped into public‑private partnerships to integrate transportation, healthcare, and government services, others have prioritised carbon‑neutrality or adopting a comprehensive portfolio of fully automated e‑services. We can learn from all of these examples.”

“While financial returns may take time to materialise, economic benefits clearly accumulate over the longer term, ultimately delivering substantial cost savings. Smart lighting systems, for instance, can reduce costs by 50‑70%, while intelligent waste management can cut up to 30% of operating expenses,” said Abdelwahab. As of October 2025, following [5] the formal adoption of the National Smart Cities Strategy, the country has shifted its focus toward transforming existing cities into sustainable, livable, and economically dynamic urban centers. Additionally, there is an effort to revitalize established regions and enhance the previous generation of Smart Cities.

Sherif El-Sherbiny, who [6] was the Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities until February 2026 described Egypt's Smart Cities as carefully designed and interconnected urban areas that prioritize improving quality of life. These cities focus on sustainable practices and aim to build resilience in economic, social, and environmental aspects while incorporating knowledge, innovation, digitalization, and technology across all facets of urban living. “Today marks the beginning of more future partnerships to create sustainable urban cities,” said El-Sherbiny. Amr Talaat, who [7] is the Minister of Communications and Information Technology also stated the launch of 5G in Egypt represents a significant advancement in the development of the smart city ecosystem. This technology facilitates the management of thousands of sensors and data exchange by enabling ultra-high-speed transmission of instructions, as well as the retrieval of information and results. Furthermore, the importance of artificial intelligence technologies in analyzing the vast amounts of data generated is crucial for effective utility management.

Egypt's initiative [8] for smart Cities originated with Cairo's Smart Village, incorporating Internet of Things infrastructure, district cooling systems, and 15-minute clusters aimed at minimizing commutes and emissions. This model is being expanded to New Alamein, where a central data centre established by Giza Systems will oversee Green River Park, the longest green space integrated with infrastructure, telecommunications, security, and utilities. The Urban October Report 2025 outlined [9] key global discussions and initiatives focused on sustainable urbanization. Urban October facilitated 579 events in 58 countries, uniting governments, communities, and partners across the globe. “Digital technologies can be leveraged to enhance how cities and human settlements are designed, planned, managed and governed. Cities globally are leading the way, as they increasingly adopt digital technology solutions and data to deliver better services for residents and address critical urban challenges and opportunities,” said the report.

A report from the Institute of Development Studies indicates that the significant expansion of AI-enabled surveillance [10] in public spaces throughout Africa is infringing on citizens' freedoms and their fundamental right to privacy. Dr Tony Roberts, who [11] is the independent digital rights researcher and co-author of the report [12] titled Smart City Surveillance in Africa: Mapping Chinese AI Surveillance Across 11 Countries said, “Our new research shows that the rapid growth of smart city surveillance in Africa is occurring without adequate legal regulation or oversight. Unregulated surveillance creates a chilling effect that inhibits the right to peaceful protest and reduces the freedom to speak truth to power and hold governments to account. Digital surveillance of terrorists and the most serious criminals can be justified in the public interest, but installing thousands of smart CCTV cameras for the mass surveillance of all citizens suspected of no crime violates important human rights.”

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Police in the UK to expand live facial recognition despite criticism

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:32:04 -0400

Authorities in Manchester and Bradford have reported instances of arrests and missing-person cases, amid increasing opposition from civil liberties groups regarding the police's implementation of live facial recognition technology.

Live facial recognition technology is being increasingly implemented across the UK, with police reporting the results of recent operations in Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, including arrests, recoveries of missing persons, and monitoring of compliance. Greater Manchester Police [1] utilized this technology at Manchester's Caribbean Carnival. The two-day event, which occurred from August 8, attracted tens of thousands of attendees, with police stating that they collaborated closely with parents and stakeholders to facilitate the carnival.

Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson [2] for Greater Manchester police noted that only “a fraction” of attendees were arrested during the event. “This year’s carnival was a fantastic success from a policing perspective the overwhelming majority of people enjoyed themselves sensibly and safely. A lot of policing work goes into making sure people stay safe during events of this nature, and I would like to thank each officer involved for their hard work. As with any event involving such a huge amount of people, a fraction of people were arrested for various reasons with our officers quickly on hand to deal with situations where necessary.”

Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson also claims that LFR has proven to be an effective tool for identifying various subjects, including wanted criminals and missing persons, achieving this with a high degree of accuracy and without instances of misidentification. “LFR has been a great tool in identifying everything from wanted criminals to missing people, doing so accurately and without any misidentifications. By working closely with Carnival organisers and the local community, we hope to continue building stronger links going forward, to ensure that we can provide the best possible policing service.”

West Yorkshire Police have announced [3] the arrest of several individuals and the recovery of a weapon during their recent deployment of LFR cameras in Bradford city centre. The operation took place from August 19 to 21 and successfully identified four individuals wanted for criminal offenses, all of whom were apprehended. One of the suspects was found in possession of a knuckle duster and was further detained on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon. Additionally, the operation aided in locating a missing person.

Since February 2026, LFR vans [4] have conducted 17 visits to Bradford resulting in 29 arrests. The technology has also identified 21 individuals under Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, allowing officers to verify compliance. Inspector Justin Adams from [5] the Bradford City Neighbourhood Policing Team stated that the technology is proving effective in both locating wanted persons and protecting vulnerable community members. He also mentioned that local businesses have generally welcomed its usage, which is funded by the Knife Crime Concentration Fund. “The Live Facial Recognition Team have again supported City NPT not only in helping us locate wanted individuals but also in supporting our commitment to protecting vulnerable people. It has helped officers find a high-risk missing person quickly, ensuring they received the support and safeguarding they needed at the earliest possible opportunity. The technology also helps us identify those on orders who may cause harm, enabling officers to intervene, engage and take action to keep our communities safe. Local businesses and traders have broadly welcomed the use of LFR over the last six months, which is now supported by funding from the Knife Crime Concentration Fund,” said Adams.

West Yorkshire Police will also [6] implement Live Facial Recognition technology on the external perimeter of Leeds Festival for the first time. This technology compares live camera images to a watch list of individuals wanted by police or those who may pose a risk to public safety. Chief Inspector Dan Tillett [7] for West Yorkshire Police said, “Our priority is for everyone attending Leeds Festival to experience a safe and enjoyable event. Live Facial Recognition will form part of the wider safety operation at Bramham Park and will be used to help us prevent crime, safeguard the public and identify people who are wanted by police or who may present a risk to others. Whilst most people attending Leeds Festival are there to enjoy the event responsibly, we want to work in partnership to identify those who might seek to use the event as an opportunity to commit crime or cause harm. LFR provides us with an additional capability to identify those individuals quickly and effectively. Live Facial Recognition has already been used a number of times across West Yorkshire, including in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield city centres, as well as at major events. We are committed to using the technology responsibly, lawfully and transparently as a targeted policing tool to help make Leeds Festival as safe as possible for everyone attending."

However, Civil liberties organizations have urged [8] Nottinghamshire Police in the Midlands to abandon plans for the implementation of Live Facial Recognition technology. [9] In a collective letter, groups including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Big Brother Watch, Liberty, and Open Rights Group expressed concerns that LFR constitutes biometric mass surveillance and is significantly more invasive than merely being an additional tool for crime prevention. “The absence of national legislation has resulted in rights abuses, including breaches to privacy rights, data protection laws and equality laws. This legal vacuum has also left police forces vulnerable to lengthy, costly and high-profile litigation; where children are included on watch lists, the likelihood of legal challenge only increases. We urge you to halt Nottinghamshire Police’s plans to use live facial recognition surveillance any further, at least until Parliament has legislated and there are sufficient safeguards in place to protect the rights of the public,” said the campaigners.

They contend that the practice of scanning individuals in public areas inherently casts suspicion on all citizens, thereby jeopardizing fundamental rights such as the ability to protest, participate in union activities, and access healthcare services. The organizations criticized assurances that citizens should feel unconcerned, arguing that the technology may deter ordinary activities. Campaigners also highlighted the potential for disproportionate targeting, citing reports that LFR could be deployed against children as young as 11 under Operation View. They warned that this approach could exacerbate behavioural issues and erode the trust between youth and law enforcement. Additionally, polling data from Liberty indicated limited public backing for LFR, with 48 percent of respondents opposing its use in public spaces, and most individuals rejecting its implementation in educational institutions. Younger demographics in London, in particular, demonstrated strong opposition. In light of these concerns, the organizations have called on Nottinghamshire Police to cease any further use of live facial recognition surveillance.

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Romania to expand digital ID nationwide

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:31:11 -0400

The Romanian government has announced that its new biometric digital identity system is now accessible from any location within the country.

The announcement follows over a year since the government began issuing [1] the new chip-based digital ID in Cluj County. The Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that a decision facilitating [2] the delivery of digital IDs was approved along with two additional measures during a meeting on March 13. According to Cotidianul, authorities have [3] stated that they are now extending the delivery of the card to other major cities, indicating the country's commitment to gradually replace legacy ID cards, authorities have clarified that the CEI, designed to resemble a bank card, will be issued at no cost, while existing IDs will continue to be accepted until they expire.

Officials anticipate that millions of citizens will obtain the digital ID within the next few years and have highlighted its significance in enhancing access to various government and private sector services. The nationwide [4] rollout of Romania's digital ID aligns with a broader trend across Europe, where nations are transitioning from traditional paper or laminated identity documents to secure, chip-enabled credentials that function both physically and digitally. This transition not only modernizes document formats but also establishes a foundation for a more interconnected and efficient digital public infrastructure, facilitating access to a wide array of services for citizens.

The government has announced that the implementation of the new digital ID is a key component of Romania’s initiative to comply with [5] the EU’s eIDAS regulation, which aims to enhance cross-border travel and access to digital public services among member states. In June, Romania indicated its intention to adopt the German model for the rollout of [6] its European Digital Identity wallet.

The new electronic ID will be issued to citizens either as their existing IDs expire or upon request. Officials have stated that the new card is designed to streamline administrative processes, bolster security against fraud, and allow citizens to utilize their national ID for online interactions with Romanian and other EU public administrations. In July 2026, the General Directorate for People’s Records within the Ministry of Internal Affairs [7] announced that steps have been implemented including legislative changes to enable Romanians living abroad to apply for the new digital ID. A government [8] release indicates that the decision was made after a thorough evaluation of EUDI Wallet solutions implemented at different stages in other Member States, alongside the long-term development strategies for the ecosystem. “Romania is efficiently capitalising on the available resources, building the project based on technical solutions and certification schemes taken over from advanced European countries, with which collaborations have already been initiated. In this context, Romania will adopt and use the German solution for the European Digital Identity Wallet, following a rigorous evaluation of the EUDI Wallet solutions in different stages of implementation in other Member States, as well as the long-term development strategies of the ecosystem,” said the press release.

The technical infrastructure for the implementation of [9] the EUDI Wallet in Germany has been secured by youniqx Identity, the digital arm of the Austrian State Printing Company, following a Europe-wide tender process. In March 2026, the General Directorate for Personal Records announced that over 1.5 million digital ID cards had been issued in Romania during the first year since their introduction, [10] as reported by News.ro. Authorities indicate that this initiative represents progress in decreasing bureaucracy and enhancing access to public services. The new format features a chip that holds biometric data and digital certificates for electronic signatures and access to e-government platforms.

The Romanian government [11] entered into a memorandum of understanding with Mastercard to create a national digital ID wallet in May, aiming for completion by December 2026. This solution is set to be interoperable throughout the EU, aligning with the European Digital Identity Wallet framework, as outlined in a government memorandum. As part of a 5-year Digital Partnership programme, the Romanian government will maintain ownership and management of the ecosystem, while Mastercard Europe SA, based in Belgium, will function solely as a technical service provider. The government has stated that this agreement will not incur any costs to the public budget.

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ICE used facial recognition on activists and protestors according to court records

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:30:29 -0400

Court documents outline the use of facial recognition technology in conjunction with undercover operations and intelligence collection.

Released court documents [1] reveal that Homeland Security Investigations utilized [2] Clearview AI's facial recognition technology as part of a larger undercover operation. This operation involved infiltrating activist groups, monitoring encrypted communications, and compiling intelligence files on individuals protesting immigration enforcement in Minnesota.

Homeland Security Investigations or HSI, [3] the investigative division of Immigration and [4] Customs Enforcement or ICE, deployed undercover agents to attend community meetings and activist groups as part of Operation Metro Surge. The agents covertly recorded discussions, accessed private Signal chats, gathered vehicle data, and examined financial connections involving labor unions and progressive organisations.

On September 2025, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations [5] concluded a $9.2 million contract with a company based in New York, which includes an upfront payment of $3.75 million. The agreement will utilize Clearview’s biometric matching software for two specific investigative purposes: cases related to child sexual exploitation and investigations concerning assaults on law enforcement personnel.

The documents were released as part of a discovery motion filed for Isaac Sant, one of 15 defendants accused of conspiring to obstruct federal immigration officers. Sant's legal team reported that the government provided at least two search reports from Clearview AI in the case, one of which yielded photographs of a different individual as potential matches and included images from Facebook showing that individual's wife and child. Sant's attorneys are requesting additional records from the government, arguing that these are essential to assess the extent of the surveillance and to determine if individuals participating in protected First Amendment activities were included in federal investigations without sufficient criminal justification.

The government's investigative files indicate that the undercover operation was significantly more extensive than the visible confrontations between immigration agents and observers that garnered national attention earlier this year. Records show that Homeland Security Investigations [6] initiated Operation Puppet Master on January 28, granting permission for undercover agents to infiltrate groups and gatherings that the agency considered a potential threat to federal officers.

In February 2015, a 2nd investigation [7] known as Project Whipple Shield commenced, aiming to uncover the organizational frameworks and financial backing related to activities the government linked to violence, property damage, intimidation, or disruption of federal operations.

Court documents reveal that undercover officers from the US Department of Homeland Security infiltrated community meetings at churches, parks, libraries, and schools by posing as protesters. They recorded interactions among attendees and accessed encrypted communications utilized by activists. Rev. Jen Crow, [8] senior minister at First Universalist Church of Minneapolis, said “We are calling on other communities of faith on our elected officials, on Minnesota businesses to stand together, to say no to political surveillance and intimidation, to say yes to holding together as a community, to caring for one another.”

One particular agent operated under the pseudonym “peanutbutterjelly” in communications via Signal with group organizers. During a meeting of the Sunrise Movement, the agent noted that members described their upcoming demonstrations as peaceful. However, according to a defence filing, the agent suggested to one participant that he possessed construction skills that could aid in executing more aggressive direct actions and expressed a willingness to accept the risk of arrest. This offer was ultimately declined by the participant.

In July 2026, a lawsuit [9] claims that federal immigration agents regularly captured photographs and videos of individuals, their vehicles, and license plates while they were monitoring immigration operations. The federal lawsuit alleges that DHS collected facial images, license plate information, and identities of individuals who were peacefully observing immigration enforcement actions. The lawsuit claims that this information was subsequently used to revoke their Global Entry and Transportation Security Administration PreCheck privileges.

The 55-page complaint was submitted in the US District Court for the Southern District of California [10] by the Electronic Privacy Information Centre, along with 3 US citizens. The plaintiffs contend that federal agents photographed, scanned, or identified them during their observations of immigration operations. Federal law allows for undercover investigations and the collection of intelligence in relation to legitimate law enforcement objectives. However, [11] the Privacy Act of 1974 places limitations on the government's ability to maintain records that detail individuals' exercise of First Amendment rights unless such information is relevant to an authorized law enforcement activity. The legality of Operation Metro Surge in this context is expected to be a key issue as Sant's case moves forward.

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UN to expand digital ID platform to refugees

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:29:25 -0400

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East is utilizing its eUNRWA digital identity platform as the authentication system for distributing humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees with financial assistance from the EU.

UNRWA has announced [1] the receipt of €3 million in new humanitarian aid from the EU to go towards Palestinian refugees from Syria. Those registered with the agency's digital ID verification system will receive monthly cash assistance of €38 per household, in addition to €17 per individual.

Branko Golubovic, an EU Humanitarian Expert at [2] the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, said “The EU’s support provides vulnerable Palestine Refugee families from Syria with the opportunity to live with dignity despite particularly difficult circumstances. The EU continues to support the most vulnerable in Lebanon, including Palestine Refugees from Syria, Syrian refugees and vulnerable Lebanese, in their time of need.”

Dorothee Klaus, who [3] is the Director of UNRWA Affairs in Lebanon also said, “The EU’s support provides a critical lifeline for Palestine Refugees from Syria who remain in Lebanon and continue to face immense hardship. Until conditions allow for a safe and dignified return to Syria, the cash assistance enables families to meet basic livelihood needs in increasingly difficult circumstances.”

The initiative seeks to enhance the distribution of cash and material aid to these refugees, promoting both ease and transparency. The eUNRWA app, [4] which was launched in February 2023, serves as a bilingual mobile platform for Palestine refugees and others eligible for UNRWA services. This platform enables users to view and update their registration records, submit applications for life events, track the status of these applications, and download [5] a Family Registration eCard.

The platform serves as a digital access, authentication, and verification layer integrated with UNRWA’s Refugee Registration Information System database, which contains records for [6] approximately 5.9 million Palestinian refugees and hundreds of thousands of other eligible individuals. Utilizing a biometrics-based digital verification system, UNRWA has enhanced its humanitarian assistance programme for refugees. This development illustrates the transformation of traditional beneficiary registries into digital identity infrastructure, establishing a reliable identification layer for digital service delivery.

The UN Refugee Agency have also been implementing digital ID systems. However, privacy advocates are raising concerns that these systems necessitate robust measures to ensure consent, protect data, and mitigate risks of exclusion, especially for vulnerable groups. Human Rights Watch reported that the UNHCR collected [7] personal information and biometric data from ethnic Rohingya refugees without proper procedures. This information was then shared with Bangladesh, which subsequently passed it on to Myanmar to inform its considerations regarding potential repatriation.

The refugee agency reportedly did not perform a data impact assessment regarding its data management, which contravenes its established policies, and did not secure informed consent from refugees for the sharing of biometric and other data with the country they had fled, as indicated in a recent report. The UNHCR has rejected allegations of misconduct, asserting that it communicated the purpose of the data collection and maintained that no Rohingya individuals were endangered. Human Rights Watch highlights ongoing crimes against humanity and persecution carried out by the Myanmar government against its Rohingya population.

According to research and interviews conducted by HRW with refugees and field observers, out of 24 refugees interviewed, 23 reported that UNHCR personnel informed them they needed to register for the camps’ Smart Cards to receive aid, but did not address the potential sharing of data with Myanmar or how such information could be relevant to repatriation assessments. The Smart Card system was introduced by the Bangladesh government as a way to provide refugees with identity cards and supplemented the UNHCR’s earlier registration efforts.

A report examining the applications of digital identity in humanitarian contexts highlights both the challenges and opportunities presented by the technology, providing five key recommendations for its development and adaptation, especially in migration situations. As a consortium of humanitarian organizations embarks on the second phase of its cash assistance initiative, it has opted to assess the broader utilization of digital identity within the sector.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies collaborated with the Dignified Identities for Cash or DIGID consortium which includes the Norwegian Red Cross, Norwegian Refugee Council, Norwegian Church Aid, and Save the Children Norway to produce the [8] report titled Digital Identity: Enabling dignified access to humanitarian services in migration. Nesrine Aouinti [9] for Prepare Centre said [10] in the research, “At the various stages of their journeys, migrants are asked to identify themselves to gain access to humanitarian services. But people on the move have specific needs and concerns when it comes to identification. The sheer variety of migration scenarios around the world make this a multifaceted topic, including issues related to the inclusion and protection of those who are fearful of being identified. Meanwhile, there is an accelerating trend for humanitarian organizations to adopt digital identification technology in their work with forcibly displaced migrants. This brings with it opportunities to improve access to services, but also risks around, for instance, data privacy and security.”

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Thailand to link online game platform to digital ID system for age assurance

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:28:53 -0400

Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is engaged in discussions with gaming platform Roblox, one potential area of focus is the implementation of Thailand’s National Digital ID system to verify the identities and ages of users.

Roblox, [1] the social gaming platform, has faced ongoing criticism [2] regarding its online safety measures particularly in relation to child sexual exploitation, resulting in multiple lawsuits. Regulators around the world have engaged with Roblox, with [3] Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society being one of the most recent to address the issue.

According to [4] a report by Khaosod English, discussions between the ministry and Roblox have focused on enhancing safety and child protection measures. This includes the potential implementation of Thailand’s National Digital ID system to verify the identities and ages of users.

The conversation has also covered topics such as age restrictions and filtering, biometric facial age estimation technology, chat moderation systems aimed at detecting inappropriate messages, and Roblox's strategy to adopt measures aligned with [5] the International Age Rating Coalition or IARC rating system by 2027.

Thailand is among several Asian countries exploring age assurance legislation for social media platforms and related services. In June 1, 2026 Malaysia established [6] a ban under the Online Safety Act 2025, effective which prohibits users under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on major platforms. This regulation affects over 8 million users and requires formal identity verification through documents such as MyKad or passports.

Indonesia enacted Regulation No. 9 of 2026, which [7] prohibits minors under the age of 16 from accessing core social networking services. This regulation shifts the responsibility of enforcing age restrictions and protective features directly onto the platforms. Meutya Hafid, [8] who is the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs of Indonesia said, “The basis is clear. Our children face increasingly real threats. From exposure to pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud, and most importantly addiction. The government is here so that parents no longer have to fight alone against the giant of algorithms. We realize that the implementation of this regulation may cause some discomfort at first. Children may complain and parents may be confused about how to respond to their children’s complaints.”

Japan has suggested [9] implementing stricter age-verification and content-filtering requirements as part of recommendations from a government communications panel, while avoiding a complete ban on users. Singapore [10] is evaluating platform compliance with the Code of Practice for Online Safety, focusing on mandatory age assurance requirements for major services such as Facebook and TikTok.

Chaichanok Chidchob, [11] who is the Digital Economy and Society Minister has emphasized the urgent need for online safety, stating that his initiatives aim to foster long-term trust among users, families, and Thai society. Chaichanok has proposed the idea of verifying users [12] who wish to access Roblox by integrating Thailand’s National Digital ID/KYC system with Roblox user accounts. He intends to establish a joint working group to examine the proposed verification system. Government-linked systems present a trade-off; while they can deliver accurate age verification, they also raise concerns regarding tracking and privacy.

Roblox is utilizing Persona's facial age estimation technology while simultaneously working on a new modular, multimodal behavioural machine learning system. This development is part of the company's efforts to address reputational and financial challenges by ensuring that age verification measures remain current. Roblox said [13] in a statement on their website. “The technology we use for facial age checks was selected because it’s been tested and certified by third-party labs and has proven to be more accurate than self-declared age,” “This initial age check is necessary, but age assurance doesn’t end at the selfie. To move age assurance beyond a point-in-time signal, we built a high-throughput ML layer that evaluates whether an account’s ongoing behaviour still matches its estimated age over time. Our feature-level modular design enables efficient model updates and rapid adaptation to shifting behavioural patterns.”

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EU makes infrared cameras mandatory for drivers

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:28:13 -0400

New regulations in the European Union will require all newly sold cars and vans to be equipped with infrared cameras that monitor the driver.

The requirement affects tens of millions of vehicles annually and is framed in terms of safety. Known as Advanced Driver Distraction Warning or ADDW, the regulation [1] is part of the European Union's General Safety Regulation, officially designated as 2019/2144. Automakers have been obligated to install this feature in new vehicle models since July 2024. This new policy started in July 7 and is now mandatory for all new cars and vans launched in the market. The camera monitors the direction of a driver's gaze and head position, assessing whether the driver has diverted their attention from the road for an excessive duration.

If a driver looks away for more than 6 seconds at speeds ranging from 20 to 50 km/h, the system is programmed to provide a warning. At speeds exceeding 50 km/h, this attention threshold is reduced to three and a half seconds. Each alert is designed to be noticeable and is accompanied by an auditory signal or a tactile vibration, which intensifies the longer the system detects that the driver's focus has shifted.

The European Commission [2] promotes this initiative as a means of saving lives, anticipating that the broader safety measures will prevent over 25,000 fatalities and 140,000 serious injuries by the year 2038. This effort is part of a longstanding initiative known as Vision Zero, which seeks to eliminate road fatalities by 2050. “European roads are among the safest in the world, but the number of deaths and injuries from road accidents is still too high. Thanks to the EU’s General Safety Regulation, many safety systems have already been mandatory for all newly registered cars and vans since 2024,” said the European Commission.

Tamás Orbán, who [3] is a political journalist for the European Conservative believes the ongoing monitoring of a vehicle's interior [4] presents significant opportunities for automotive companies, as the extensive data collected could prove to be extremely valuable. “Put simply, driver behaviour can be turned into precious consumer data to be used internally or sold to the highest bidder,” said Orbán. “Now imagine what could go wrong when suddenly millions of European cars all have cameras facing inside. Even if GDPR should protect consumers on paper, it’s only a matter of time until someone gains access to all the sensitive data and footage these cameras capture along the way.”

Leon Poultney, [5] a writer for Tech Radar believes the new policy from the European Commission [6] is the latest privacy nightmare. “Among the new requirements are advanced emergency braking systems that detect pedestrians and cyclists, as well as ‘better forward vision’ and camera-based driver distraction technology that audibly warns drivers to pay attention to the road. Many new cars already feature this technology, which uses a small camera mounted behind the steering wheel or somewhere above the infotainment system in the centre of the dashboard. Constantly active, the system monitors the driver's eyes and facial expressions, intervening if it detects that the driver is looking away from the road for too long,” said Poultney.

The mandated cameras are designed to refrain from storing or sharing information regarding interactions. However, public sentiment is largely characterized by distrust following years of increasing surveillance. Michael Harley, [7] an automotive journalist warns in [8] an article for Forbes, “If all new automobiles are equipped with the physical hardware to monitor drivers via IR cameras, it’s only a matter of changing some software and adding a storage device to record driver behaviour.” Data can potentially be stored on the servers of car manufacturers or government agencies, as [9] many contemporary vehicles function as tracking devices.

In 2024, Kashmir Hill reported for The New York Times [10] on the unexpected rise in insurance premiums for drivers, attributed to data transmitted from their vehicles regarding driving habits. The report indicated that car manufacturers are gathering information from internet-connected vehicles for the insurance industry. "Car companies are collecting information directly from internet-connected vehicles for use by the insurance industry," said Hill. In 2021, the US Congress enacted legislation mandating [11] the installation of technology including in-car cameras in new vehicles, this legislation is called the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. After an extension, this technology is now required to be integrated into cars.

The issue with the ultimatum is that the technology required to passively detect signs of intoxication is not sufficiently developed at this time. In April, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration concluded that [12] none of the existing technologies are close to being ready for commercialisation. As a result, Americans are currently not facing mandated cabin surveillance; however, given the current trends, it may only be a matter of time before this situation changes and aligns with developments seen in other regions.

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Egypt to make facial recognition mandatory for mobile phone line registration

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:27:26 -0400

The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority is implementing measures to enhance the verification process for the identities of mobile phone lineholders, however this latest move has fuelled privacy fears.

4 minute read

Facial biometric verification will be required for the activation of new mobile SIM cards in Egypt starting next month. This initiative, implemented by [1] the National Telecom Regulatory Authority or NTRA, aims to reduce unauthorized registrations and enhance the protection of subscribers' personal data. Under the new system, customers [2] must present their national ID cards and sign a standard service contract prior to undergoing an automated facial recognition check. Activation of SIM cards will occur only after the system verifies that the purchaser's facial image aligns with the identification document. The entire process will be conducted through technical verification, eliminating any human intervention. The NTRA has stated that mobile operators will not store biometric data.

Testing of the facial verification system is currently in progress, with full implementation anticipated. In the interim, the sale of company-issued SIM cards has been halted. The regulatory authority also intends to review existing company lines to confirm they are held by their registered users. For Egyptians residing abroad, [3] the verification process will be accessible either through a representative in Egypt with a valid power of lawyer or remotely once the system is operational. The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority has stated that these measures are aimed at resolving longstanding issues related to SIM card registration, while also enhancing the security of subscribers' personal information.

However, Amira al-Adly, [4] who is a member of the House of Representatives, have raised concerns regarding [5] the use of facial recognition technology for mobile phone line registration. MP Adly emphasized the importance and sensitivity of biometric data, labeling its management as a matter of national security. She questioned the main objective behind deploying facial recognition, inquiring whether it is solely to prevent mobile phone lines from being misused or if it is part of broader state efforts to implement a digital identity system. Adly also highlighted that the Personal Data Protection Law mandates the creation of a dedicated data protection centre. She stated that the collection of sensitive data necessitates a clear institutional framework outlining the rules for its handling and protection.

Egypt would [6] introduce a biometric verification application intended for government online services. The Ministry of Interior has described this initiative as the nation’s first unified national platform focused on securing personal data and safeguarding online transactions. The platform utilizes facial recognition technology, developed by local engineers, and is crafted to comply with international technical standards, according to the ministry. As indicated on the app’s on boarding screens, users aiming to access services from the Interior Ministry online must authenticate their identity by scanning their national ID card and completing facial recognition procedures. Citizens can register by providing their mobile phone number and national ID details. The ministry highlighted that the app offers features including identity verification, tracking of official requests, and notifications regarding services. However, it did not disclose which specific government platforms or services will be incorporated into the system.

In October 2025, Egypt announced plans to establish 3 entirely government-owned data centres [7] as part of its national strategy aimed at accelerating digital transformation and improving public service delivery. Mostafa Madbouly, [8] who is the Prime Minister of Egypt said, “The state is committed to expanding investment in data centres and cloud platforms to capitalize on Egypt’s strategic location and the robust infrastructure developed over recent years.” The Egyptian government is anticipated to unveil additional incentives aimed at promoting investment in smart data centres and cloud services, with the goal of establishing Egypt as a regional hub for digital innovation and secure data hosting.

In November 2025, Egypt’s Central Bank launched [9] a new website as part of the upcoming introduction of the Haweya mobile application, intended to streamline digital ID verification for financial inclusion and various services. The website would support remote digital Know Your Customer processes, facilitate bank account openings for 37 financial institutions, enable document verification, and allow users to subscribe to telecommunications services such as SIM card purchases. Additionally, it will provide access to a range of services from both government and private sectors.

Citizens must register on the Haweya platform by providing their biometric data, which will create a trusted digital ID profile for accessing various services. This initiative aims to streamline the process of performing banking and other transactions, reducing the reliance on complex and often error-prone paperwork. Once the digital ID app is launched, the Central Bank of Egypt anticipates that citizens will be able to open bank accounts and conduct financial transactions using their smartphones, eliminating the need to visit physical bank branches.

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French high court blocks social media ban for under-15s

Lionel Eddy — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 08:26:36 -0400

France's highest court has struck down a bill that sought to prohibit social media access for individuals under the age of 15.

A court [1] has ruled that the social media digital ID law violates freedom of expression. This decision poses a significant setback for President Emmanuel Macron, who advocated for the legislation and sought to inspire similar initiatives in other countries. However, it is seen as a victory for privacy and free speech. “By prohibiting minors under the age of 15 from accessing certain online services, the law inherently requires every person, even an adult, to prove their age before accessing them,” said the Constitutional Council. “The Council holds that the contested provisions, on the one hand, disproportionately infringe upon the freedom of expression and communication and, on the other, fail to provide the legal safeguards necessary to ensure the right to respect for private life.”

A proposed bill aimed [2] at prohibiting individuals under the age of 15 from creating social media accounts has sparked debate. If enacted, the legislation would have taken effect on September 1. Existing accounts created by users before that date would have needed to be deactivated within four months. Furthermore, social media platforms would have been required to implement age verification systems, raising concerns about privacy implications. A commission made up of seven deputies and seven senators dedicated around two hours to reconcile two different versions of [3] a bill introduced by Renaissance deputy Laure Miller. The final text closely resembles the version that was earlier submitted in the National Assembly.

Anne Le Hénanff, [4] who is the French Digital minister said, “The government fully understood that checking IDs part and thought it a selling point. For four months, all of us in France will have to prove our age. If someone is under 15, the account will be closed.” The legislation stipulates that individuals under the age of 15 are prohibited from opening accounts as of September 1. Additionally, platforms have a four-month timeframe to close existing accounts for this age group and are required to implement age verification methods sanctioned by the French privacy regulator. France has acted swiftly in this matter and is advocating for similar measures to be adopted by other countries.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced in July that the EU plans to implement [5] a ban after an expert group advised restrictions for individuals under the age of 13. “Our children need time in the real world. Time to play, time to build friendships, time to make mistakes. Time to shape their own identity, their own personality, before an algorithm shapes them instead,” said von der Leyen. The UK government announced [6] a ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16, set to take effect in early 2027. Additionally, officials are contemplating an overnight curfew and strategies to prevent infinite scrolling for users under 18. In December 2025, Australia enacted a prohibition on individuals under the age of 16 accessing certain platforms. [7] The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 is set to affect platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and potentially applications like WhatsApp and Roblox. The government has promoted the measure as a means to safeguard children from online dangers; however, it has raised concerns among the companies responsible for its implementation.

Evidence from the British Medical Journal or BMJ suggests that Australia’s Social Media Minimum Age Act has [8] not resulted in significant immediate decreases in social media usage among individuals under the age of 16. “While the researchers acknowledge that legislative changes take time to show results, they argue that current platform age verification checks are inadequate and that many under 16s are actively bypassing these restrictions. In response to growing concerns about the potential harm of social media use to adolescent health and wellbeing, governments internationally are considering or implementing age-based restrictions, but empirical evidence on their real-world effects is scarce,” said the BMJ.

A study [9] titled Assessing early effects of Australia’s Social Media Minimum Age Act on adolescents’ social media use, tracked 408 teenagers and revealed that 85% of Australians aged 12 to 15 continued to access online platforms three months after a ban was implemented to limit their internet use. “Despite the intent of the Social Media Minimum Age Act 2024 to delay access to social media platforms and reduce the potential for online harms, little evidence was found of immediate substantive reductions in reported social media use by adolescents under 16 years,” the BMJ concluded.

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