Proponents of the new biometric identification cards insist the system is a necessity towards preventing identity theft. Opponents cite the unacceptable intrusion into the private domain as well as fears that no matter how well it is protected, it is only a matter of time until the biometric database is hacked.

Whatever you opinion, the program began in Israel on Monday morning, Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av 5773. Despite many objections, biometric ID cards (teudat zehut) are being offered in Ashdod and Rishon L’Tzion, chosen as the test cities for the project. The project will expand to other cities in the future. During the two-year test program, citizens may opt for the new biometric option or remain with the standard identification cards used today. The biometric cards will be issued free of charge.

At the end of the two year period a decision will be made to move ahead with a national biometric database or alternatively, to destroy the data amassed.

Supporters of the biometric system report 130,000 ID cards and 20,000 passports are lost and stolen annually and the biometric option permits canceling them immediately. This they explain prevents ID theft.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)