Many Brits have official ID photos or scans on their phone

Promo image of new GOV.UK Wallet to digitalized ID documents in one mobile app

(Image credit: GOV.UK)

One in three (one in two young people) have an ID photo on their phone
Many Brits even have a copy of someone else’s, too
Digital IDs could solve privacy and security concerns

With news of digital driving licences being set to arrive in Britain in 2025, new research from Thales has uncovered just how crucial they could be to boosting citizen’s security.

It found an estimated one in three Brits store a photo or scan of their official ID on their phone – a figure that’s closer to one in two among younger citizens (46% of 16-24-year-olds and 51% of 25-34-year-olds).

Despite the complacency, 15% of UK residents have been victims of fraud in the past month alone – another trend that’s more prevalent among younger individuals.

Britain’s digital IDs could be a cybersecurity boost

Moreover, 26% of Brits keep a photo or scan of their official ID in multiple locations, with one in five even storing a copy of their friend or family member’s ID on their own device.

It doesn’t just stop at forms of identification, though, because Thales found that nearly one-quarter (23%) of Brits keep bank details in non-encrypted folders.

Plans to introduce digital driving licences via a new wallet within the UK Government app could provide the enhanced security many Brits clearly need thanks to additional layers of encryption.

Moreover, with 49% feeling uncomfortable sharing bank statements with landlords and 58% unhappy about giving away their personal details when signing up for services, the new Government-issued digital IDs could address privacy concerns and simplify online verification processes.

Digital ID users may also be able to redact certain information, such as their home address, when using their ID to provide proof of age.

Thales Strategic Marketing Director for Digital Identity, John Cullen, summarized: “With secure digital identities, consumers can protect their personal information more effectively.”

It’s unclear whether British digital IDs will integrate with native smartphone systems, such as Apple Wallet, and citizens have already expressed concerns over the stability and usability of the upcoming app feature following similar efforts from the NHS during the pandemic.

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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!