Australia selects reader for 25 embassies

The Australia Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) has selected Viisage to provide electronic document readers for more than 25 Australian overseas locations worldwide.

DIMA plans to use Viisage’s iA-thenticate Smart Chip/RFID Electronic Document Reader to improve overall security around the issuance of travel and identity documents, specifically e-passports. The product is designed to ensure that all documents presented as proof of identification are credible and authentic.

This is the second deal announced in recent months using this new product, with an implementation in Brazil having been announced in March.

DIMA is the third consecutive Australian government department to award Viisage a contract to implement its technology. Previously, the Australian Customs Service (ACS) selected Viisage’s iA-thenticate product for all Australian international airports to help authorities efficiently monitor who enters and departs the country, and the Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) uses Viisage’s automated authentication technology to ensure document security and provide quality control of newly issued passports.

"Viisage’s product will help us improve security and extend this security beyond our borders," said Janette Haughton, DIMA spokesperson on identity technology. "We believe these installations will significantly enhance our ability to detect fraudulent documents before a visa is granted and an unwanted visitor travels to Australia."

iA-thenticate Smart Chip verifies data in ePpassports and the MRZ (machine-readable zone) and expiration date. The system captures, analyzes, and authenticates information contained in travel and identity documents with colour images and populates applications with information contained in the identity document. Additionally iA-thenticate tests information for formatting consistency to confirm authenticity.