Digital identity remains a hot topic and the implementation of eIDAS 2.0 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of digital identity within the European Union (EU). In this blog we explore some of the key updates to the eIDAS legislation, particularly the adoption of an EU Digital Identity Wallet and the impact this will have on security, interoperability, and user experience.
Understanding eIDAS 2.0
eIDAS, short for Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services, came into effect in 2014 to enable secure and seamless cross-border electronic transactions within the European Single Market. eIDAS 2.0 presents an evolution in digital identity standards and practices which incorporate advancements in technology and addresses the challenges for digital identity.
Expected to come into effect by the end of Q2 2024, some of the key updates include:
- The EU Digital Identity Wallet where the onus is on member states to offer citizens and businesses voluntary adoption of digital wallets that will link to national digital identities with proof of personal attributes.
- Enhanced Interoperability among electronic identification (eID) schemes across member states, enabling digital identities issued by one member states to be accepted in other member states. This will help foster a single digital market.
- Extended Scope of Trust Services to address the evolving needs of businesses and citizens in this digital age. This includes the use and management of Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) for users that must be issued by a Qualified Trust Service Provider (QTSP) such as GlobalSign. The mandatory availability of a free of charge QES for citizens is limited to non-professional purposes.
- Standardization of Security Measures to ensure the integrity and security of electronic transactions. These will be governed by strong authentication and encryption standards to protect against identity fraud and unauthorised access to digital services.
Features of an EU Digital Identity Wallet
- Allow citizens to prove their identities and enable secure access to public and private digital services.
- Enable citizens to prove their identity and securely share electronic documents from their individual mobile device, anything from authenticating an online purchase to checking in at an airport.
- Individuals will have the means to store, share, manage, and authorize access to their electronic identification and trust services.
The Impact on Qualified Trust Services
The eIDAS framework relies on security and trust, therefore the EU Digital Wallet must be verified to the highest validation standards that comply with EU legislation. eIDAS 2.0 extends its scope to include a broader range of trust services including qualified signatures, seals, timestamps, electronic delivery services, and website authentication certificates, among others.
GlobalSign is proud to be recognized as a QTSP across EU Member States. Our qualified trust services encompass a wide range of solutions to ensure you and your business remains secure and complies with the eIDAS regulation. Our Qualified Certificates can be issued for qualified signatures, and seals and include qualified timestamping for non-repudiation. Our solutions ensure legal recognition and secure and standardized cross-border electronic transactions within the EU.
eIDAS 2.0 represents a comprehensive update to the original regulation, keeping in mind the evolving landscape of digital identity and trust services within the European Union. By encompassing these additional services, eIDAS 2.0 aims to address the evolving needs of businesses and individuals in the digital age.
