Optus Adopts Mastercard’s Digital ID Service

Mastercard has formed a strategic partnership with Optus. The agreement specifically concerns Mastercard’s ID digital identity service, which will be integrated into the My Optus app to give Optus customers a paperless way to prove their identities online and in person.

Optus is the first telecom in Australia to adopt Mastercard ID, and is hoping that the service will enable a better customer experience across its telesales, mobile, and retail channels. Those that take advantage of the service will have access to a secure digital identity, which can be used when logging into their account, purchasing services, or completing other interactions.

The solution eliminates the need for physical identity documents like driver’s licenses. Customers can use their device’s biometric authentication features to verify their identity and gain access to their information, and will have full control over what information they choose to share with other parties when they do.

“Optus’ partnership with Mastercard provides our customers with the option to embrace the benefits of a digital identity, not only when they interact with us, but with other organisations too,” said Optus Digital Consumer VP Vaughan Paul. “ID solves pain points for our customers, while at the same time giving them more control over their personal information.

“This collaboration builds on Mastercard’s commitment to digital identity, providing a more efficient way to interact with businesses and service providers in the physical and digital worlds,” added Mastercard Cyber and Intelligence President Ajay Bhalla. “Collaborating with technology providers is critical as we advance the delivery of a scalable digital identity service.”

Nearly 6 million people have downloaded the My Optus app thus far. Optus is hoping that Mastercard ID’s biometric features will help prevent rising rates of SIM-related fraud.

Mastercard, meanwhile, has spent the past few years working to bring digital identities to the public. The company launched trials with Deakin University and the Australia Post in 2019, and is collaborating with Samsung and Microsoft on device-based digital ID products.

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November 18, 2020 – by Eric Weiss