From January to March 2023, the government consulted on proposed legislation to support fast, safe and secure data sharing between departments to enable people to more easily access public services online.
The proposed legislation will enable more effective online identity verification when accessing government services. This includes allowing checks against a broader range of trusted data held by relevant public bodies. It will mean that people who currently can't access government services online will be able to do so.
The proposal will support the roll out of the new cross-government GOV.UK One Login system. GOV.UK One Login allows users to create an account, sign in, and prove they are who they say they are in order to access government services online. People will be able to 'reuse' their proven identity, without needing to go through the identity checking process each time they use a different service.
The below fact page addresses several misconceptions about the proposed legislation which a number of responses to the consultation raised.
CLAIM: The government is creating a mandatory ID card.
FACT: The proposed legislation does not include any proposal to create either a digital or physical ID card. The government is committed to making it as easy as possible for people to prove who they are online, and access the services they need, without creating mandatory ID cards.
CLAIM: Using GOV.UK One Login will be mandatory.
FACT: No. Having a GOV.UK One Login account will not be mandatory for UK citizens. Offline and face-to-face routes will be available for individuals who do not want to use the online service.
CLAIM: This will make it easier for hackers to get hold of my data.
FACT: Cybersecurity is a critical priority for the government. We recognise how important it is to protect users and their data and have robust measures in place to ensure the security and integrity of online government services and systems. We are following industry standard processes regarding security and resilience, and additionally consulting relevant external organisations
