Since it was launched in October 2018, Singapore’s SingPass app has undergone numerous updates to improve the platform over the past two years in terms of security and convenience, especially during Covid-19 times when contactless transactions are considered a part of the “New Normal”.
The first innovation was introduced in December 2020, when SingPass got two Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) options for government digital service transactions: SingPass Face Verification and Multi-User SMS 2FA.
SingPass Face Verification enables users to log in by entering their SingPass ID and password then scanning their face on a computer with a web camera, or a mobile device with a front-facing camera. Those that do not have access to such devices can go to selected public locations having this service. Similar locations will be added progressively.
There are security measures to avoid fraud, among which is a liveness detection technology that can identify and and prevent the use of a photo, video or a mask in the verification process.
Meanwhile, the Multi-User SMS 2FA is an extension of the existing SMS-OTP 2FA method. Users who may need help when transacting online, can choose to have their SMS-OTP sent to another user’s mobile number. For example, a SingPass user can have their OTP sent to their child’s number so their child can help them with their transaction.
Noting that there are users that may be less digitally-inclined, National Digital Identity senior director Kwok Quek Sin said: “SingPass Face Verification as an alternative 2FA will be especially useful as it reduces the need to key in additional information like One-Time Passwords (OTPs). This option also serves our overseas Singaporean community who might not have a locally-registered number and are unable to receive SMS-OTPs.”
The Digital IC (Identity Card) feature on Singpass will now be accepted by government agencies when the user applies for or utilizes public services in person.
SingPass users can now avail of patient registration; public clinic appointment scheduling; registration for admission into government buildings; borrowing from public libraries; passport acquisition; and reservation of Housing Board flats and pick up keys.
The SingPass also allows the use of e-signature services, also known as Sign for SingPass. United Overseas Bank (UOB) Limited, Singapore’s third-largest bank, is currently in a 12-month pilot programme using Sign for retail and corporate customers, individual wealth planning service forms and similar corporate applications.
Nearly 100% of Singaporeans and permanent residents 15 years old and above have SingPass accounts. With over 3.2 million SingPass users, some 300 million personal and corporate transactions are made each year.
