Enhanced Security and Upgradeable Features
On 9th June, Estonia began issuing its new electronic identity (eID) cards. Developed with Thales, they aim to bolster the nation’s digital identity programme. This marks a major milestone in Estonia’s digital transformation.
Under an extensive eight-year contract with Thales, these cards cover lifecycle management of national identity documents. Residents, citizens, diplomats, and refugees are among those who will benefit from this upgrade.
Advanced security elements embedded in the eID cards can be upgraded remotely. As a result, these cards counter emerging cyber threats effectively, ensuring protection for citizens’ digital transactions over time.
Advanced Security Measures
Featuring materials like translucent polycarbonate, the cards integrate physical protection with robust digital security. Multiple optical elements resist tampering, facilitating secure online services, digital signatures, and banking transactions.
Liis Valk, Head of Identity and Status Bureau at the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, emphasised, “Estonia’s digital ecosystem depends on the trust citizens place in their identity documents. With this new generation of eID cards, we are strengthening both physical and digital security while ensuring people can continue using our services with confidence.”
Thales manages card issuance and lifecycle management, equipping each card with multi-layered security features. The company safeguards personal data with top cybersecurity standards, ensuring the resilience of Estonia’s digital services.
Nathalie Gosset, VP Identity and Biometric Solutions at Thales, remarked, “Estonia has long been a pioneer in digital identity, and we are proud to support the next chapter of this remarkable journey. These new cards combine advanced document design with strong cybersecurity foundations, ensuring resilience against emerging threats.”
Estonia is reinforcing not only the security but also the adaptability and durability of its identity documents in the face of increasing cyber risks. Various identity cards, including residence permits, e-resident digital identity cards, and diplomatic identity cards, are part of this initiative.
Collaboration with Thales, a leader in digital identity and cybersecurity, ensures that Estonia’s digital services continue to operate on a trusted and resilient identity foundation. The advanced eID cards are pivotal in maintaining the integrity of digital transactions and access to various online services.
