Canadian Government Working on Blockchain-Based ID Scheme For Travel

Canadian Government Working on Blockchain-Based ID Scheme For Travel

The blockchain technology is a decentralized distributed ledger which has found its application not only in transacting digital currencies but also in other applications like keeping medical or land records, real-time logistics tracking, and others. Also, one of the other major reasons the blockchain technology has received a lot of appreciation is because of the encrypted security it offers.

Businesses and government institutions across the globe have lauded blockchain, and even at the recently held World Economic Forum 2018 last week, it remained as a major topic of discussion. In an interesting new development, the Canadian government in collaboration with the Accenture is working on a new blockchain-based digital ID system for travelers.

The project is named as “Known Traveler Digital Identity” and is aimed at implementing broader security at airports wherein the traveler will need to share his/her digital ID beforehand. Along with the blockchain technology, the project aims to use biometrics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in order to efficiently address cyber security threats, enhance security and simplify travelling procedures, as reported by WEF.

The entire system is supposed to be app-based where users can store and share personal data with authorities before travelling. The app is expected to allow Canadian citizens to store resident cards, university degrees, proof of direct vaccinations, a list of visited placed and a lot more. Apart from the app, the system will also have a biometric check for additional level of security and would help the authorities to streamline the process. All this information will be held in the blockchain.

John Moavenzadeh, head of the WEF’s Mobility System Initiative, was cited as saying: “With travelers providing access to verified personal biometric, biographic and historical travel data at their discretion, they can assist authorities to undertake risk assessments and pre-screening in advance: essentially verifying their identities and providing secure and seamless movement throughout their journey using biometric recognition technology.”
The importance of this project is reflected from the list of partners involved in it. The list includes some of the very reputed government agencies like The Transport Canada state department, the Dutch Ministry of Security and Justice and the US Department of Homeland Security. It also includes other companies like Visa, Google, and Hilton Worldwide. To ensure the security of the project and the customers, the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) will also be a part of the project.

While commenting on this new development, Marc Garneau, Canada’s minister of transport said: “Innovation is key to enhancing global competitiveness, mobility and productivity. Leveraging new technological advancements can support risk-based approaches to public safety and security, making air travel more efficient while improving the travel experience.”

Mr. Garneau added that the project will “provide opportunities to make security for air travel more efficient while improving the traveler experience.”

In the first phase of this project, Canada will be working with the Netherlands and have a pilot testing done at the airports.