The Department of Transport and Main Roads’ has introduced a two-factor verification system for driving licences, aimed at protecting the public from fraud and identity theft.
The system was originally scheduled to be introduced in 2023, but has been expedited following the recent Optus data breach.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the extra layer of protection was now in place.
“Anyone who has applied for a bank account, or new phone plan, will know the usual process for providing your licence number to verify your identity,” Mr Bailey said.
“Now, you will need to provide the unique card number found on your driver licence as a second step in the verification process.”
He said this was similar to the CVV found on the back of credit and debit cards, and made it an even more secure identity document.
“This card number is already in place on Queensland-issued licenses but will now be a requirement for identification purposes for banks, telcos and utility providers,” Mr Bailey said.
He said the majority of Queensland Optus customers had only their licence number compromised, not the card number.
“Those impacted who had not provided the card number as well can be assured that this extra security measure will mean the compromised licence number cannot be used for fraudulent activity on its own,” the Minister said.
“I can appreciate there may be some concerned members of the community who will still want to have their licence number changed, and this option will remain available.”
He said the Optus data breach had been a stressful time for many and the Department’s staff were pulling out all stops to manage the high volume of requests for new licences.
More information is available from this PS News link.
