Brazil is launching a blockchain-driven national ID system, aiming for nationwide coverage by November 6.
Brazil has initiated a revolutionary step in the world of digital identification. With the introduction of a blockchain-backed national ID system, Brazil is set to enhance security and streamline administrative processes. As one of the largest countries in South America, Brazil’s move is likely to influence other nations in the region.
First Steps in Digital Revolution
Starting in Rio de Janeiro, Goiás, and Paraná, Brazil will begin issuing identification documents using blockchain technology. These three states mark the initial phase of a plan that aims to cover the entire nation by November 6. This strategic rollout stems from a decree released on September 25.
Serpro, Brazil’s renowned national data processing service, developed the private blockchain that will power this ID system. With Alexandre Amorim at the helm as the president, Serpro believes that the decentralized nature of blockchain is a perfect fit for a national digital ID initiative. The technology, known for its immutability, will play a pivotal role in safeguarding personal information. The overarching goal is to reduce fraud and offer Brazilians a more secure digital identity.
Beyond Identification: The Greater Vision
The national ID project isn’t just about providing citizens with a digital identity. It’s about strengthening the nation. Brazil aims to combat organized crime more effectively and bridge the gap between various government sectors. This unified system will simplify access to services and improve administrative record-keeping.
Interestingly, Brazil isn’t the only nation in South America leveraging blockchain for identification. Buenos Aires, a city in Argentina, recently launched a similar project. Their residents can now obtain identity documents through a digital wallet, indicating a growing trend in the region.
Uniting Brazil Through Technology
In recent years, Brazil has been fervently working towards unifying identity issuance across its nearly 30 states. By integrating blockchain, they can ensure a more secure exchange of data between the Federal Revenue and other government departments.
On a side note, Brazil is also venturing into the realm of central bank digital currencies. In August, they unveiled more details about this initiative, rebranding their digital currency as “Drex”. Reports suggest that the central bank’s vision includes expanding businesses’ access to capital using a tokenization system linked to Drex. It’s worth noting that the Drex code has features that allow a central authority to control funds, a detail revealed by a local developer.