Digital scheme to revolutionise AML and KYC for agents, plan reveals

The government has moved a step closer to creating an online ID process by publishing an updated version of its digital identity trust framework.

Updated draft rules incorporate feedback from surveys conducted after the first version was published in February and show how organisations can be certified to provide secure digital identity services.

It will now start testing the framework and is looking for organisations to take part.

The digital ID process will allow people to prove who they are, where they live and how old they are without the need for physical documents. It will be particularly relevant to the conveyancing process, where house-buyers often need to prove their identity multiple times.

But the government is aware its plans will be controversial, so it hopes to establish a trust framework to lay down the rules on how the companies involved, and the public, can access information and set out how people’s private data will be protected.

New guidance

This second version also includes new guidance on how organisations can work together to create a consistent approach that delivers a better user experience and reduces the need for burdensome and repetitive verification processes. The initiative was launched in February. 

Digital Infrastructure Minister Matt Warman says whether someone wants to prove who they are when starting a job, moving house or shopping online, they ought to have the tools to do so quickly and securely.

He adds: “We are developing a new digital identity framework so people can confidently verify themselves using modern technology and organisations have the clarity they need to provide these services. This will make life easier and safer for people right across the country and lay the building blocks of our future digital economy.”

The full consultation, closes on 13th September, follows a grilling of property industry leaders earlier this year by a parliamentary committee.