iProov shares digital identity trends set to shape the future of trust

iProov has released its predictions regarding digital identity trends that are expected to shape the future of trust and security online in 2025.

Among the highlights, iProov anticipates the emergence of deepfake technology as one of the most alarming threats to news integrity. A major broadcaster is expected to reveal that a recent interview involved a deepfake, causing significant concern over AI-generated media's impact on journalism. This revelation will likely prompt calls for enhanced content attribution technologies and increased media literacy efforts, underscoring the critical need to protect information integrity.

The advancement of biometric technology at border crossings is anticipated to streamline travel experiences worldwide. By using facial verification systems like Eurostar's SmartCheck, the passenger processing time is expected to decrease significantly, enhancing security and reducing congestion. The shift towards these systems is anticipated to foster a new age of secure travel, where individuals can move more freely and securely.

A pivotal issue foreseen by iProov is the potential disruption of financial markets due to deepfake techniques. A synthetic video of a Fortune 500 CEO announcing a false merger could result in temporary market instability and a loss of trust among investors. This scenario highlights the necessity for reliable identity verification methods to preserve information authenticity. Industries are expected to invest more in biometric authentication and other protective measures to counter such threats.

The misuse of deepfake technology is also anticipated to affect employment processes globally. A major synthetic identity scheme could potentially infiltrate organisations, exploiting vulnerabilities within remote onboarding protocols. Such incidents might lead to significant data breaches and financial disruptions, prompting a reassessment of identity verification methods and cybersecurity strategies.

iProov also forecasts challenges surrounding the EU Identity Wallet project, slated for a 2026 rollout. The business model and liability concerns associated with the wallet are expected to spark debate. Questions regarding cost-bearing responsibilities and accountability in cases of mass-scale fraud will need addressing to ensure the project's success and positive impact on the digital economy.

Furthermore, the rise of "sharenting" - the extensive sharing of children's personal information online - is expected to render traditional security questions obsolete, as such details become easily accessible to malicious entities. This will likely necessitate more robust authentication processes, including facial biometrics and multi-factor approaches, to protect accounts against advanced social engineering attacks.

Regarding the influence of technology firms, iProov predicts companies like Meta, Mercado Libre, and Globant will assume greater control over digital identity management, potentially overshadowing traditional governmental roles. While this could boost convenience and security, it also raises concerns about government oversight and privacy implications.

As global security concerns drive change, 2025 is expected to witness an increase in national digital ID programs. Governments will likely expedite the implementation of digital identity systems, enhancing cybersecurity and ensuring secure online interactions for citizens.

The year will also see a rise in decentralized identities, allowing individuals to selectively disclose their information. This trend reflects a heightened focus on data privacy and user control, enabling more secure and customised interaction with digital services.

The banking sector will also face challenges as deepfake-related fraud forces regulators to mandate biometric verification for payment processes. This regulatory shift, predicted to be led by countries like Thailand and Vietnam, is expected to strengthen security in financial transactions and drive the adoption of biometric methods in the sector.