DBS and GovTech to pilot SingPass face verification technology

By Edil Corneille

Singapore-based DBS Bank has partnered with the Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech) to pilot the latter’s SingPass Face Verification technology. This programme aims to benefit over a million DBS customers who are SingPass holders and do not use digital banking services, of which over 60 percent are seniors aged 62 and above. The technology will enable citizens and permanent residents to sign up for DBS’ digital banking services from their homes, with instant access to their bank accounts and banking services.

“Amid one of the greatest disruptions ever witnessed in our time, we are more cognisant than ever about the importance of leveraging digital technology to quickly serve up solutions that benefit the wider public,” said Jeremy Soo, Head of Consumer Banking Group (Singapore) at DBS Bank. “In line with Singapore’s Smart Nation agenda, we have been introducing innovative digital solutions over the years that provide easier, more seamless ways to bank. Together with GovTech Singapore, we aim to support those who are journeying into digital banking for the first time, and to help foster resilient digital habits that will last for years to come.”

For DBS customers unfamiliar with online onboarding, the SingPass Face Verification feature is designed to help expedite their digital banking registration process in a more intuitive and seamless manner.

Kok Ping Soon, Chief Executive, GovTech, said, “We are delighted to partner leading digital bank DBS in piloting SingPass face verification for simpler customer journeys. As our Smart Nation digital identity, SingPass enables citizens to transact seamlessly with public and private sector services, accelerating digitalisation and strengthening trust in our digital economy. We look forward to building more impactful services with the financial sector and beyond, to bring greater convenience to our citizens.”

SingPass, Singapore’s national digital identity, has rolled out its latest face verification feature which is said to offer a trusted and convenient mode of identity verification. Businesses match the user’s presented facial image against the Government’s biometric database, and do not collect nor retain any data submitted. This helps ensure the user’s data privacy and security. DBS/ POSB customers who are keen to sign up for DBS/ POSB digibank via the SingPass Face Verification may download the digibank mobile app via Apple App Store, Google Play, or the Huawei App Gallery.