Global information services company, Experian, has announced that UK consumers looking to access certain public services online from 2014 will be able to choose its ID authentication service to quickly and easily confirm their identity.
The announcement follows Experian’s appointment by the Government’s Digital Service as a choice provider of identity verification for the new Identity Assurance programme.
This is designed to give individuals quick and simple, real-time access to Government services without the need to provide paper-based proof of name and address.
In line with the Government’s initiative to give consumers more control over their personal information online, the new programme will offer people a choice of providers to validate their identity. Once validated through Experian, consumers will be able to set up their own password, which should allow secure online access to public services as they become available during 2014.
Being able to prove one’s identity online easily, quickly and safely is recognised as a key enabler of internet use by the Government and is part of its pledge to provide digital services that are straightforward and convenient, making them easy to use.
Experian said it has been selected to be one of the programme’s key identity providers because of the breadth and depth of its consumer information as well as its existing capabilities in providing quick, real-time paperless identity verification in both the public and private sectors.
Caroline Thomas, managing director, Global Strategic Development at Experian Consumer Services, said: "People choosing Experian as their identity provider can expect to receive quick, secure and reliable access to a range of Government services online without the need for paper-based proofs or further referrals.
"By using our comprehensive, proven identity verification service people can confidently validate their identity very quickly. With our track-record in implementing and delivering secure and successful identity authentication in both the private and public sector, we are well-placed to meet Government requirements and look forward to providing an easy-to-use and efficient service to UK residents."
Initially, the identity assurance programme will be trialled in the autumn of this year. Once up and running, from April 2014, the programme will gradually be extended across the full range of Government digital services via the gov.uk website.
