The UK government is preparing to launch a mandatory digital ID called the BritCard, designed to curb illegal immigration and modernise access to public services—but critics warn it risks creating a surveillance state and punishing vulnerable citizens.

Failure to present a BritCard when required may result in denial of employment, housing, or access to certain services. Employers and landlords will be legally obligated to verify status through the system, and failure to do so may result in fines or penalties.

While enforcement details are still emerging, civil liberties groups warn that the scheme could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Those without smartphones, digital literacy, or stable housing may struggle to access or maintain their digital ID, potentially pushing them further into the margins of society.

  • LeFantome@programming.dev
    178·
    16 days ago

    Well, let’s see. The UK wants mandatory ID because today you can walk in to an hospital and get $100,000 of free healthcare without even proving you are entitled to it. And you can maybe work without paying taxes. And you move freely and safely anywhere in the country.

    In the US, if you do not have proof of citizenship on you at all times (and maybe even if you do), you may be snatched off the street, detained, and perhaps even sent to a foreign prison all without due process of any kind.

    Wow, now that I say it out loud, you are right. The UK sounds like a hell-hole.

    • Skullgrid@lemmy.world
      6·
      16 days ago

      Well, let’s see. The UK wants mandatory ID because today you can walk in to an hospital and get $100,000 of free healthcare without even proving you are entitled to it.

      the healtcare does not cost that much in the UK, because we/they don’t have idiotic “insurance” companies driving up the prices to make one OTC pill that should cost 30cents cost 400 dollars.