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Digital ID - What It Is and How It Works
Digital-ID systems improve governance, facilitate greater inclusion, fuel economic growth and help governments achieve their core goals. Far from enabling greater surveillance, digital IDs can actually make information more secure. Beyond their public-sector benefits, they also allow citizens to interact more safely and smoothly with private-sector institutions. They are a critical component of a reimagined state fit for the 21st century.
Why digital ID?
A secure ID for safer, smoother access to services
Safely storing identifying information in a digital wallet enables individuals to securely verify their identity and other attributes in an interoperable manner that streamlines processes, reduces fraud and ensures that services reach those who need them most. From accessing benefits to applying for jobs, the potential applications for these verifiable credentials are enormous.
The real-world benefits unlocked by digital ID
Estonia: Tax Returns
In Estonia, citizens spend an average of three minutes filing their annual tax return thanks to digital ID.
Sweden: Doctor’s Appointments
In Sweden, digital ID allows people to book doctor’s appointments, access prescriptions and view medical records through one simple interface.
India: Allocating Benefits
In India, the government has saved $30 billion by using digital ID to allocate benefits more efficiently while reducing fraud.
IN THE NEWS
Media coverage of our digital ID expertise
LBC published an op-ed by Ryan Wain on 5 September 2025 arguing that digital ID will transform public services, help tackle illegal immigration and reduce benefits fraud.
On 4 September 2025 The Mirror published an op-ed by Ryan Wain making the case for digital ID as a way to end the exploitation of undocumented workers. The paper also referenced Ryan’s piece in an exclusive report on new Ipsos polling about the introduction of digital ID.
The Standard published an op-ed by Alexander Iosad on 14 August 2025 highlighting the multiple benefits of digital IDs – from data governance and safety to access to public services.
Alexander Iosad appeared on TalkTv on 8 August 2024 to discuss the implications of introducing digital IDs, particularly regarding data access and safety.
On 4 August 2024 Alexander Iosad appeared on BBC Radio 4, Radio 2 and Times Radio to discuss reports that the prime minister was strongly considering universal digital ID.
The Times published detailed comments from Tony Blair about the benefits of digital ID and crime-fighting tech in a writeup of the findings of its Crime and Justice Commission on 15 April 2025. The piece pointed to the paper’s recommendation to introduce a unique digital identifier for personal records and noted TBI’s projections of the economic benefits.
The Independent published an op-ed by Ryan Wain on 11 April 2025 highlighting the long-term economic benefits of digital ID.
Tony Blair’s advocacy for digital ID was referenced in The Times on 8 April 2025 in relation to an open letter from more than 40 Labour MPs urging the government to introduce digital IDs. The Times later quoted TBI’s supporting figures in an editorial backing the MPs calling for the introduction of digital ID.
Alexander Iosad was quoted by The Independent on 3 April 2025 in a report on identity scams, highlighting how digital ID could help combat identity fraud.
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