The National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) has reinstated the online face verification service for the National Digital Identity platform, eFaas, following a temporary suspension to transition to a new service provider. The feature is now accessible through the eFaas web platform across all major browsers.
The decision to change providers was influenced by public concerns regarding the previous contractor, Sum and Substance Pvt Ltd (Sumsub), a UK-registered company with Israeli ownership. In response, NCIT terminated the contract with Sumsub and engaged Regular Forensics, a Latvian firm with three decades of experience in digital security services. Regular Forensics is recognised for its expertise in forensic devices and identity verification solutions, serving various sectors including border control, finance, and government agencies.
State Minister for Homeland Security and Technology, Dr Mohamed Kinaanath, overseeing NCIT, emphasised the agency’s dedication to enhancing the eFaas system. He stated, “Our aim is to improve the eFaas system day by day and make the system a benchmark in the country’s efforts of digital expansion and maintain confidence of the public and organisations.”
NCIT assures users that personal data, including photographs, are securely managed within the organisation’s framework and are not shared with external entities. The primary objective of eFaas is to ensure that government digital services are accessible only to the rightful individuals, thereby mitigating risks of identity theft and fraudulent activities.
Prior to implementing online face verification, eFaas users were required to verify their identities through in-person visits or video calls to designated centres. The reintroduction of the online feature aims to streamline the verification process, offering users a more convenient and secure method to access digital services.
