The science ministry in South Korea has reiterated that no data will be retained under a new policy that mandates real-time face recognition for registering a new mobile phone number. This assurance follows the launch of a trial run of the policy, which requires individuals to scan their faces using the PASS identification app. The app compares the photo on an identification card with the person’s actual face.
Despite the implementation of this policy, concerns have been raised among the public, especially in light of recent data breaches at local mobile carriers that resulted in significant leaks of personal information and unauthorized mobile payments. The ministry addressed these concerns by emphasizing that no personal information is stored or saved, and any data collected is promptly deleted once verification is completed.
In response to public apprehension, approximately 43,000 individuals have signed a petition urging lawmakers to revoke the policy. The ministry has committed to collaborating with mobile carriers to enhance data security and conduct thorough assessments of the face recognition system in partnership with relevant entities. Additionally, South Korea plans to address any challenges faced by senior users during the trial period before the official implementation scheduled for March.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by South Korea to combat voice phishing scams, with measures introduced in August that include stricter penalties for mobile carriers failing to implement adequate preventive measures. While the current system only supports resident registration cards and driver’s licenses, the ministry aims to enhance the system to accommodate identification documents used by foreign residents in the future.
