The adoption of digital ID technologies brings immense potential, but also understandable concerns that must be addressed thoughtfully. Experts at the recent EXCITE fall summit provided valuable insights into overcoming barriers to digital ID adoption while building public trust.
Acknowledging Valid Privacy and Security Concerns
As Giles Sutherland of Interac noted, many people have valid worries about privacy and security with digital ID. These concerns should be acknowledged rather than dismissed. Certain groups like Indigenous peoples have experienced data misuse and may be rightly skeptical of government stewardship of personal data. Businesses also need assurances that sensitive financial information will be protected.
Building trust requires understanding these perspectives. Technologists must demonstrate how digital ID benefits people, while implementing robust privacy and security safeguards. Transparency about data practices is essential. Real-world success stories can show the technology’s advantages in a tangible way.
Fostering a Culture of Trust Through Inclusive Implementation
According to Viet Vu of Toronto Metropolitan University, successfully implementing digital ID requires building an entire culture of trust. This means incorporating all relevant considerations into the process, including upfront and operating costs.
Crucially, the government must develop talent that understands both technology and building trust. Inclusive implementation and governance with diverse voices at the table is vital. Those rolling out digital ID must engage with and respond to concerns from all segments of society.
Bridging the Digital Equity Gap
Lack of trust is not the only barrier. Jamie Boyd of Deloitte noted that issues of digital equity and skills often prevent adoption. Groups like newcomers and small businesses can face barriers in accessing or using digital services.
Boyd argued technologists should identify points of exclusion and demonstrate the value of digital ID specifically for those demographics. For small businesses, it may be highlighting how digital ID enables smoother online operations. For newcomers, it may be showing how digital ID prevents fraud. Targeted outreach and training is key.
The Risks of Overselling and Coercion
Sutherland cautioned against overselling or coercing people into adopting digital ID. Mass branding campaigns often create unnecessary friction. For marginalized groups with valid objections, persuasion attempts may backfire and erode trust.
Technologists should focus less on preaching the benefits, and more on tangibly demonstrating digital ID’s advantages through voluntary programs. Let people experience the benefits firsthand, rather than telling them what to think. Move forward at a pace comfortable for diverse communities.
Centering User Needs in Technology Design
The panelists’ insights highlight the need to center user needs, concerns and perspectives in digital ID design. Instead of pushing a top-down technology solution, designers should engage marginalized communities to understand how digital ID can serve them.
Incorporating feedback through an iterative, user-centric design process results in a more equitable, trustworthy product. Diverse teams including social scientists and ethicists should guide development. Solutions like stringent opt-in policies and decentralized identity architectures can address common objections.
The Role of Government in Setting Standards
While private sector innovation drives digital ID forward, the government plays a crucial role through funding research, convening stakeholders and setting standards. As Boyd noted, small businesses need guidance on digital adoption. The government should provide resources for companies to integrate digital ID capabilities in a secure, privacy-preserving way.
Clear regulations can address concerns while enabling innovation, like prohibiting certain uses of digital ID data. Governments must also lead by example, implementing digital ID ethically across public services and demonstrating its advantages.
The International Context
Canada is not alone in grappling with digital ID adoption. Many programs worldwide provide lessons on challenges and best practices. Estonia’s digital ID program is lauded for security and convenience, while India’s Aadhaar has faced criticism for excluding vulnerable groups. Understanding what has worked well internationally, and what pitfalls to avoid, will smooth Canada’s path.
The OECD has provided recommendations on digital ID frameworks. Canada can align with global standards for interoperability while ensuring domestic needs are served. Cooperation between countries on emerging technologies like blockchain-based self-sovereign identity could accelerate equitable innovation.
The Need for Holistic Solutions
Digital ID alone cannot resolve issues like fraud against newcomers. As Interac’s survey shows, complementary educational programs are essential. Users must have the skills to leverage digital ID securely. Combining technology deployment with training and empowerment is crucial for adoption.
Holistic policy solutions must also address root causes like inequality. Digital ID paired with greater social supports can unlock inclusion, but only by tackling underlying barriers. We must be wary of simplistic techno-solutionism and stay cognizant of social context.
Conclusion: A Thoughtful, Inclusive Approach to Digital ID Adoption
Realizing the promise of secure digital ID while navigating legitimate concerns requires a thoughtful approach. Technologists must build trust through transparency, inclusive design and demonstrating tangible benefits. User needs and perspectives should be centered when developing solutions. Holistic strategies addressing root inequities are vital for ethical emerging technology adoption.
There are certainly challenges ahead, but with compassionate engagement and evidence-based policy, Canada can implement digital ID equitably. If designed properly and inclusively, these technologies can expand access and empowerment. By acknowledging objections and centering the user, a digital ID can fulfil its potential while upholding privacy and security.
