eKey - The Digital Authentication Framework

Developed by the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), the eKey is a unified login system designed to streamline and secure access to electronic services that require individual identification. It plays a key role in facilitating safe and efficient access to a wide range of eServices provided by government entities and the private sector.

The eKey serves as a trusted digital authenticator for both citizens and residents in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Through this system, the Kingdom of Bahrain has successfully established a centralized login mechanism accessible via various electronic platforms, including the National Portal bahrain.bh, mobile applications, and official websites.

eKey 2.0

The revamped eKey 2.0 application provides the Kingdom of Bahrain’s citizens and residents with a secure single-sign-on solution that simplifies access to many public and private sector eServices with ease and without the need to re-enter personal data for each service. The application leverages artificial intelligence through biometric authentication using facial recognition verification and offers an enhanced eKYC (Know Your Customer) service to verify the user's national identity, ensuring a seamless and secure login process.

Functional Highlights of the eKey 2.0 Digital Authentication System:

Simplified Registration: The registration process is designed to be quick and user-friendly. Identity verification is completed by capturing a selfie and scanning the ID card, enabling immediate access to a wide range of electronic services.

Biometric, Password-less Access: eKey 2.0 offers a secure login experience through biometric authentication, eliminating the need for traditional passwords and enhancing both convenience and security.

Advanced Facial Recognition: The system utilizes facial recognition technology to ensure accurate identity verification, providing a high level of security and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Enhanced Data Privacy and Security: All personal data is encrypted and securely stored on the user’s device using a unique digital key. This approach ensures data privacy and gives users complete control over access permissions.

Delegated Authorization: The system allows for the secure authorization of trusted individuals to access and complete services on behalf of the account holder, supporting flexibility while maintaining stringent security standards.

Current eKey

The current eKey enables users to access electronic services easily and securely by digitally verifying user data based on ID card information and fingerprints through their personal accounts. This enhances the efficiency of government services and reflects the vision of the eGovernment to facilitate access to services with the highest levels of security.

Currently, the eKey is available at two levels: Standard and Advanced. Standard provides a high level of security, requiring users to enter only their personal identification number and password to access electronic services. Advanced, obtained through registration, offers an even higher level of security and enables access to highly confidential electronic services that require verification of the customer's ID card in addition to fingerprint authentication.

The eKey account verification process consists of three security levels: password, ID card, and fingerprint, ensuring maximum security for electronic transactions, especially considering the substantial increase in the number of services provided by the iGA. This feature in the system has been implemented across multiple websites, allowing users to log in only once without the need to repeat the login process to access electronic services

eKYC “Know Your Customer”

The Kingdom of Bahrain’s eKYC (Know Your Customer) platform provides a digital national identity database. It enables financial institutions that utilize e-wallet payment solutions to securely verify their customers' identities, validate their information, and digitally share data before offering financial services.