Sir Richard Dearlove, former head of MI6, has strongly criticised Sir Keir Starmer’s proposal for Digital IDs, warning it would
immediately become a target for the country’s enemies.
Dearlove cited emerging quantum technologies as a threat that could bypass existing security systems.
Security analysts have highlighted risks from China and other foreign actors, recalling previous cyber‑attacks on the National Health Service, the Electoral Commission, and private firms.
Separately, former intelligence officer Philip Ingram stressed that poorly integrated systems make digital IDs vulnerable, while Alan Miller, founder of democratic rights group Together Declaration, noted the potential for catastrophic breaches similar to past incidents.
Labour’s scheme would issue Brit Cards for government services, banking, and travel under the Office for Digital Identities and Attributes. Officials say they are consulting widely on security measures but critics argue the plan is rushed and could compromise personal data, among many other objections.
