Germany plans identity card modernization to improve data privacy

The German Federal Ministry of the Interior is considering a comprehensive modernization of the national identity card, with potential changes expected as early as 2027. The primary objectives of this overhaul are to enhance data protection and update the document's technical capabilities for future use.

One significant proposal currently under review is the removal of the visible residential address from the physical card. Instead, the address could be stored exclusively in an encrypted format on the integrated chip. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of personal information in the event that an identity card is lost or stolen.