Telecommunications & Media
Mobile phone activation facial authentication rollout delayed, alternative options under review
South Korea has delayed the full rollout of a policy requiring facial authentication when activating mobile phones, reflecting concerns over personal data leaks and other issues. The Ministry of Science and ICT said on March 20 it will extend the pilot period for verifying identity using facial recognition to June 30. The procedure was introduced in December as part of anti-voice phishing measures, but drew recommendations from the National Human Rights Commission and requests for alternatives.