Government to consult on digital IDs for 13-year-olds

The UK government plans to introduce a digital ID system by 2029 that will be available to citizens aged 13 and above. This announcement has sparked a backlash, with concerns raised about the potential impact on privacy and data security, particularly for younger individuals. The proposed digital ID system would allow individuals to access various government services and private sector applications using a single digital identity. The government claims this would streamline access to services and enhance security. However, critics argue that the inclusion of 13-year-olds raises issues around consent, data protection, and the potential for misuse. There are concerns that the digital IDs could be used to track and monitor young people's online activities and that the data collected could be vulnerable to breaches or misuse. The government has stated that it will conduct a public consultation on the digital ID scheme to address these concerns. The outcome of the consultation will be crucial in determining the final shape and implementation of the digital ID system.