Mexico Mandates Biometric CURP ID, Sparking Privacy Debate

An Orwellian Nightmare Realized? Or a good idea?

In July 2025, Mexico transitioned its previously voluntary Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) into a mandatory biometric digital ID system, with full implementation expected by February 2026. The updated CURP now includes biometric data; fingerprints, iris scans, and facial photographs; all embedded in a QR code for secure digital verification. This change, formalized through a decree in the Official Gazette, aims to streamline public services, curb identity fraud, and address Mexico’s missing persons crisis, with over 100,000 individuals unaccounted for, as reported by Mexico News Daily.

The government, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, touts the system’s ability to modernize processes like tax filings, school enrollments, and passport applications. A Unified Identity Platform, to be developed within 90 days by the Ministry of the Interior and the Digital Transformation Agency, will integrate CURP with state databases for real-time identity verification across sectors. A national program to collect biometric data from children and adolescents is also slated within 120 days.

Privacy advocates, including R3D and Article 19, have raised alarms over the centralized biometric database, citing risks of mass surveillance, data breaches, and identity theft. Critics highlight that authorities are not required to notify citizens when their data is accessed, and there are concerns about potential data-sharing with foreign governments, particularly for U.S. deportation processes. A 2021 Supreme Court ruling against a similar biometric registry fuels fears of legal challenges, as noted by Mexico News Daily.

Although President Sheinbaum insists the biometric CURP is voluntary and not for surveillance, its necessity for many bureaucratic processes effectively mandates participation. This has sparked concerns about accessibility for marginalized communities and the need for stronger transparency and oversight to safeguard civil liberties.

References:

- Mexico News Daily, "Mexico’s voluntary CURP ID becomes mandatory, biometric," https://mexiconewsdaily.com/mexico-curp-id-mandatory-biometric/

- Mexico News Daily, "Mexico’s voluntary CURP ID becomes mandatory, biometric," https://mexiconewsdaily.com/mexico-curp-id-mandatory-biometric/ (for Supreme Court ruling and missing persons data)