Introduction of CURP Biométrica in Mexico
The upcoming implementation of the Clave Única de Registro de Población (CURP) biométrica in Mexico will usher the country into a new era of digital identity. For the financial sector, this move will add an extra layer of security to customer verification and authentication processes by incorporating biometric data such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and digital signatures.
Relevance of Fabián Fabela
Fabián Fabela, the marketing director of Naat.Tech, a firm specializing in multibiométric technology, explains that this step is part of a broader regulatory modernization process. This includes reforms in anti-money laundering, electronic traceability, and updating the Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM)-151. This norm establishes the requirements for maintaining digital documents with legal validity.
Fabela views this as a positive development, provided it is implemented with order, security, and support for institutions. He emphasizes that these regulations will enable Mexico to compete globally in digital identity matters.
Impact on Financial Institutions
According to Fabela, the CURP biométrica will transform how financial institutions validate their users’ identities. Biometric identity is becoming a crucial component for financial institutions to comply with customer due diligence (KYC) and anti-money laundering obligations.
Currently, the traditional CURP serves as a key identifier in Mexico. However, with the CURP biométrica, verified biometric elements like facial recognition and fingerprints will be associated with it. This enables financial institutions to validate customers online by accessing this biometric information and adding more security layers.
Technological and Regulatory Requirements
Fabela highlights that while biometric identity integration to CURP will provide greater certainty in identity authentication, it will also demand robust technological infrastructure and inter-institutional coordination.
He stresses that the key to successful implementation lies in the process, emphasizing that although technology is mature and ready for implementation, a responsible and secure adoption depends on the regulatory and political process.
“We must safeguard personal data, privacy guarantees, and technological sovereignty alongside regulatory entities. Both government and private sector must collaborate to ensure this process is simple, quick, and user-friendly,” Fabela mentioned.
Implementation Details
In this new scenario, financial institutions will need to adjust their internal processes and relationships with public entities like the National Electoral Institute (INE), crucial for biometric data validation.
Fabela notes that the adoption and consultation times for this new document may vary significantly. He points out that some companies have taken up to a year and a half to secure a contract with the INE due to stringent security requirements.
