This project centers on the development of a privacy-preserving biometric identification system designed to empower users with control over their digital credentials. By focusing on the responsible use of biometrics, the initiative seeks to bridge trust frameworks and overcome the technical and legal hurdles associated with cross-border identity verification. The primary aim is to establish a secure, decentralized storage architecture, ensuring that personal data remains unexposed.

At the heart of the research and development phase is the challenge of maintaining data integrity while processing information in an encrypted state. Simula UiB leads the critical applied cryptography work package, which involves defining Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) schemes specifically tailored for facial recognition. This technical pursuit is paired with an analysis of how to integrate existing national ID digital signatures and verifiable computation methods to ensure every step of the biometric matching process is both secure and auditable at the protocol level.

The successful implementation of this technology promises significant benefits across several sectors, ranging from individual users to large-scale service providers. Users will enjoy a more secure, simplified verification experience with full sovereignty over their data. Broadly, the project aligns with international progress by contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically targeting innovations in digital infrastructure and the provision of legal identity for all by 2030.