The Unified Biometric System in Russia is gaining momentum. Since the beginning of 2024, companies that do not have state accreditation in the UBS have no right to collect and use the biometric data of their clients. This applies to the banking sector and other areas.
The law regulating the processing of biometric personal data exclusively within the state digital platform UBS is in effect in Russia since June 1, 2023. In accordance with it, banks and other organizations were required to transfer all biometric data of their clients to the system by September 30, 2023, notifying them of this one month before such transfer. After importing customer data, they are required to delete it.
So far, only nine companies have received accreditation in the UBS, including Sberbank, VTB and Alfa-Bank, and among telecom operators, only MTS has it. Passing state accreditation means that the company has high technologies and professionalism to competently process and reliably store the biometric data of its clients.
Why is a biometric database being collected?
Firstly, it is assumed that banks and other companies will be able to use it to more effectively authenticate clients, provide them with remote services and protect them from fraudulent attacks.
Secondly, the UBS is aimed at ensuring the security and confidentiality of clients' biometric data - valuable information there should be more thoroughly protected from intruders. Stronger than in individual banks, for example.
Thirdly, all organizations that are accredited in the UBS will be able to process information about clients faster, having access to a centralized database with biometric data. For example, it is proposed to start controlling through the UBS this year who buys alcohol and tobacco - teenagers will not be able to purchase them in stores.
In the case of a mobile operator - so far only MTS - such an operator with access to the UBS will be able to provide commercial organizations with its biometrics services. This will provide new opportunities for businesses in the field of verifying the identity of clients and ensuring their safety.
How to delete your biometric data?
The Ministry of Digital Development notes that the submission and collection of biometrics in the UBS is voluntary, this is enshrined in law. In order to register biometrics in the UBS at a bank branch or through a mobile application, a Russian citizen must give their consent to this.
From January 1, 2024, information about the biometrics of Russians is reflected in the personal account on the "Gosuslugi" portal in the "Biometrics" section. The biometric data itself is not stored there - only information that the person's data is in the UBS. That is, you can check your biometrics in the system.
You can delete your biometric data from it in your personal account on "Gosuslugi". The second way is to withdraw consent to the placement of your data in the UBS from the UBS operator - the Center for Biometric Technologies.
But there is a nuance - after deleting your data, it will be impossible to receive services through the Unified Biometric System. To restore access to them, you will need to submit biometrics again.