With the introduction of digital technology, more and more people have digitized many aspects of their lives, including their wallets. This includes credit and debit cards, gift cards, and other essential identification items.
However, even if we go cashless or cardless, we will still be stuck with their physical identification cards. That's just adds one more thing worry about when we're busy with our daily routines. But what if at least you could have a virtual driver's license?
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Telco providers in South Korea to provide digital license
Endgadget said that South Korean mobile carriers SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus have joined forces with ATON to incorporate the digital driver license into the PASS app. The application is also being used to verify mobile payments. Also on board is the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) and Road Traffic Authority (KoRoad).
All this information will then be used to produce a digital driver's license to make life a little more convenient, particularly for those who would prefer to carry with them just their smartphones and nothing else when they leave home. The digital driver's license will be used for reissuing and renewing licenses from July this year, and will become the standard in time.
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How safe and secure is the digital driver's license?
The digital driver's license is only available through the PASS app. This one-stop hub allows users to use it as an alternative digital wallet. PASS will essentially become your complete replacement wallet when combined with the digital driver's license.
PASS users can use a verification and encryption method to sign their driver's licenses on the app. Only one smartphone can be used with any single phone number to make things more secure.
"We are delighted to launch the digital driver's license service, which will provide users with greater security and convenience," said Oh Se-Hyeon, vice president and head of blockchain and authentication office at SK Telecom.
To ensure no attempts at identity theft are made, all information is transmitted and linked to identity authentication services directly related to the KNPA. Screenshot-blocking technology is also available inside the app to avoid replicating the protected QR code which automatically refreshes for even greater security.
Other PASS features
PASS app also has a QR code that can be scanned to verify someone's age should they ever be in a convenience store with a six-pack and a pack of smokes.
And as of July 2020, users will be able to use the app to renew or reissue their driving licenses, which will save them a visit to the local transport authority office. This also means registered users won't have to engage with anyone in any face-to-face contact, particularly now during the coronavirus pandemic.
"Going forward, we will work closely with diverse institutions and enterprises to promote its use in non-face-to-face services, which have surged since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Oh in a statement.
Apart from the QR code, users can opt to register their information on the app which will form a digital license showing the user's photo and barcode. Security features include preventive screen capture software, a continuously shifting layer of animation, and code resets.
When registering for the service, users will only be able to use one smartphone and blockchain tech will help protect sensitive data.
