As Privacy Week kicks off (1 to 7 May), the importance of protecting ourselves online and handing control of information sharing back to the people is the driving force behind building world-class privacy and security measures into all NSW Government digital services.
Over the last 12 months, there has been a spate of cyber attacks on personal information affecting people across the state. These breaches are a result of businesses storing physical documents in a way that has left them vulnerable to identity theft.
These attacks have impacted millions of people across the state, with the annual cost of cyber attacks estimated at $42 billion.
In 2022 alone, more than 50,000 physical documents were replaced with assistance from ID Support NSW, due to cyber incidents and natural disasters.
This has expedited the need for a digitally secure version of our personal information, which is a key priority of the NSW Government.
NSW Digital ID (Beta) has begun trials, with all pilot tests receiving more than 90% customer satisfaction. The NSW Digital ID will help stop the oversharing of personal data by putting people in control of how and when their information is shared.
People will only need to verify their identity once to set up their NSW Digital ID, which gives them control over what information is passed on to other government agencies and private businesses, such as being able to prove you're over 18, without sharing a date of birth, street address or other personal information which would be on a physical driver licence.
Through the NSW Digital ID and Digital Wallet, people will be able to safely and securely store their personal information, and control who has access to their verifiable credentials in real time.
NSW Digital ID will be optional for people of NSW and will be made available once rigorous testing, audit and reviews are completed to ensure information is safe and secure.
For more information on how you can protect yourself online visit ID Support NSW.
Learn more about the NSW Digital ID.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib said:
"With the world moving towards a digital future, it's more important than ever for people to feel safe when providing personal information online and the Digital ID will help do just that."
"By providing everyone the choice to control their personal information safely and securely online, it's handing the power over their privacy back to the people."
"We want to take proactive steps to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need to protect their privacy and provide security around personal information."
"Any digital service the NSW Government provides will continue to undergo rigorous testing to ensure the community has confidence that their private information is safe and secure."
