New Zealanders to access safe online services soon.
The New Zealand government has finalised a Digital Identity Services Trust Framework, allowing for secure digital identity services such as digital driver's licenses and bank IDs. According to Minister for Digitising Government Judith Collins, the framework sets out rules for accredited providers to ensure privacy and security.
Collins stated that individuals can share their information securely using these services, protecting against identity theft and giving users greater control over their data. The choice of whether to use digital identity services remains with the individual, with no obligation to do so. Accredited services will be trusted, as they adhere to strict rules and regulations.
The Trust Framework comes into effect on November 8, 2024. It does not create a central database, track users or allow organisations to exchange user information. Instead, encryption technology protects users' data, with consent always required before sharing occurs.