The Australian Government is set to introduce a new tool that will allow businesses to verify your identity using a government-issued QR code.
The system, called the “Trust Exchange” or TEx, will connect to a user’s MyGov Wallet or digital ID without the need to hand over any documents.
The QR codes could be used for job applications, hotel bookings, or entry into a pub or RSL clubs.
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Minister for Government Services and NDIS Bill Shorten is set to announce the technology at the National Press Club today.
“Services Australia is partnering with other government systems to develop TEx which would give Australians the ability to verify their identity and credentials based on official information already held by the Australian Government,” Shorten will say.
“That means sharing only the personal information to get the job done, and in some cases, not handing over any personal information at all.”
When booking a hotel room, for example, when customers check in to the hotel, they are usually asked for some form of personal ID like a drivers license or passport.
With the TEx QR codes, instead of presenting the documents to be photocopied, you will scan the QR code and choose what information to share.
Shorten will say codes “digitally shake hands with your myGov wallet,” leaving you with a record in your account of what you shared, and who you shared it with.
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When asked to provide proof of age at a pub, user will be able to present their QR code to verify your identity, address and age.
“None of that information needs to be kept by the club,” Shorten said.
What will be left is a “token” showing that your data has been verified, but not held by the club.
These tokens will be of no use to potential criminals since they don’t contain any real information.
“All that has been exchanged has been a digital ‘thumbs up’ from the Government that you are who you say you are,” Shorten will say.
The Trust Exchange is currently in the proof of concept stage but set to launch later this year.
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