The IRS said this week that “a new option in the agency’s authentication system is now available for taxpayers to sign up for online accounts without the use of any biometric data, including facial recognition.” The announcement comes in response to the backlash at a recent requirement by the agency that all users setting up online accounts with the IRS must be registered through ID.me, a verification platform requiring a video selfie for facial recognition purposes. “Biometrics can be a useful and convenient way to authenticate users,” commented Avast Security Evangelist Luis Corrons. “However, having to upload your biometric data is something most users don’t feel comfortable with, and it is really understandable given the number of security breaches that happen on a daily basis.” To quell privacy concerns, the agency now offers an option to verify user identity through a live, virtual interview with ID.me agents. For more on this story, see CNET.
