Bhutan’s National Digital Identity (NDI) has launched four new advanced features to strengthen security, build trust, and promote the country’s digital economy. The latest upgrades are expected to make it easier and safer for people to use online services. According to officials, these advancements will help lower costs, improve trust in digital transactions, and encourage the adoption of e-government and e-commerce services.
One of the new features is the “Biometric liveness verification” feature supported by the Department of Civil Registration and Census (DCRC).
This feature uses facial recognition to confirm if the user is physically present by comparing their records with the Department of Civil Registration and Census’s database.
This is expected to make online services more secure, especially for important things like sending large payments, voting, property transfers or getting pensions, without requiring a visit to offices.
Another new feature is the “In-app One-Time Password or OTP”. It replaces traditional SMS-based OTPs. This ensures that only the verified wallet holder can authorise transactions, reducing the risk of fraud or unauthorised access.
The NDI wallet also introduces “Image as a Verifiable Credential”. From opening bank accounts and applying for passports to getting licenses, this feature allows users to use image-based IDs to access services online.
Additionally, a “Secure peer-to-peer chat” feature has been added to the NDI wallet.
The encrypted chat aims to provide a trusted platform for communication among individuals, government agencies, and businesses, reducing reliance on third-party apps and strengthening data security.
Bhutan NDI is encouraging all wallet users to update their app through the App Store or Google Play Store to enjoy these new features.
As of July 337,938 users have registered on the Bhutan NDI app.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Sonam Pem
