Security fears have been triggered by news that the government wants drivers and other UK citizens to trust their personal data to a new centralised GOV.UK Wallet and GOV.UK App, which they say will simplify access to legal documents such as new digital driving licences.
The UK government's plan to introduce digital driving licences has sparked security concerns among experts. The proposal aims to modernize the current system by allowing drivers to access their licences via smartphones, potentially reducing the need for physical cards. However, critics like cybersecurity expert Professor Alan Woodward have raised alarms about the vulnerability of digital systems to hacking and data breaches. There are worries about the security of personal data, the potential for identity theft, and the reliability of digital systems in scenarios where connectivity might be an issue. Despite these concerns, the Department for Transport insists that robust security measures will be implemented to protect users' information, highlighting the benefits such as ease of access and environmental sustainability. The initiative is part of a broader push towards digital transformation in public services, but the debate continues on how to balance convenience with security.
Science & Technology
Wed, January 22, 2025
