Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration is accelerating the rollout of a nationwide biometric identification system that will soon be tied directly to mobile phone usage across Mexico. Under the new mandate, all mobile phone lines must be linked to a biometric national ID by July 2026 or face suspension. While officials claim participation is voluntary, the requirement effectively forces citizens to submit fingerprints, iris scans, facial recognition data, and a digital signature in order to maintain access to basic communication services.

The upgraded system, known as the CURP Biométrica, transforms Mexico’s existing population registry into a comprehensive digital identity platform. Registration requires individuals to submit extensive personal data at government offices, where it is then integrated into a centralized system accessible by law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and other authorities. The government has framed the initiative as a tool to combat forced disappearances, enabling real-time identification through a Unified Identity Platform that connects multiple national databases.

However, concerns are growing over privacy and government overreach. The legislation allows broad access to sensitive biometric data without requiring authorities to notify citizens when their information is used. Critics point to Mexico’s previous failed attempts at similar programs—both of which were plagued by data leaks and constitutional challenges—as evidence of potential risks. With anonymous SIM cards effectively eliminated, this system marks a significant shift toward a tightly controlled, identity-linked digital infrastructure with far-reaching implications.

SOURCE: Reclaim the Net