Important Update
If you own an L0 biometric device like the Mantra MFS100 or are considering purchasing one, it’s crucial to know that L0 devices will be discontinued from September 30th, 2024. You may have received notices from service providers, such as Jio and Mantra, regarding the cessation of services related to these devices.
Here’s everything you need to understand about the discontinuation, the reasons behind it, and what you should do next.
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Why Are L0 Biometric Devices Being Discontinued?
What is the difference between L0 and L1 Devices?
Main difference between both device is “Data Encryption Technique”.
The primary reason for discontinuing L0 devices is security. L0 biometric devices, such as fingerprint scanners or iris scanners, do not encrypt biometric data within the device itself.
When you use an L0 device, your biometric data is collected and then sent to the host device (a computer or smartphone) without encryption, leaving the data vulnerable to interception or tampering during transmission.
On the other hand, L1 biometric devices offer enhanced security by encrypting biometric data directly within the device before it is sent to the host device.
This extra layer of encryption ensures that sensitive data is protected throughout the transmission process, aligning with the standards set by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and other regulatory bodies. As security threats evolve, so must the technology that protects sensitive information like biometric data.
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Notices from Service Providers
Several service providers and organizations have already sent notices about the discontinuation:
- Mantra RD Service: Mantra has announced that RD services for their L0 devices, such as the Mantra MFS100, will only be available until September 30th, 2024. However, for L0 iris scanners, the RD service will continue beyond that date.
- Jio POS Retail Agents: Jio has informed its POS retail agents that L0 devices will not be usable for SIM activation (eKYC) after September 30th, 2024. This means that if you are using an L0 device for such purposes, you will need to transition to an L1 device to continue your operations seamlessly.
Why Should You Avoid Renewing RD Services for L0 Devices?
Given the imminent discontinuation, it is advisable not to renew the RD services for L0 biometric devices. Renewing these services will not extend their usability beyond September 30th, 2024, as these devices will not be supported for key services such as SIM activation, Aadhaar verification, and other eKYC processes post this date.
Be Cautious of Ongoing Sales of L0 Devices
Despite the official discontinuation, many L0 devices are still being sold on various e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
Potential buyers must exercise caution when purchasing biometric devices online, as continuing to buy L0 devices may result in wasted investment due to the limited functionality of these devices beyond September 30th, 2024.
Always check for L1-compliant biometric devices to ensure future compatibility and security compliance.
What Should You Do Next?
- Assess Your Needs: If you currently use an L0 biometric device, consider transitioning to an L1 device to maintain compliance with security standards and avoid disruption in services.
- Avoid New Purchases of L0 Devices: If you’re in the market for a new biometric device, ensure you’re buying an L1 device. Double-check the specifications to confirm compliance with current security standards.
- Check RD Service Status: Before renewing RD services, verify the validity period and ensure you are not renewing for a device that will soon become obsolete.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye out for notifications from your device manufacturers and service providers regarding the transition from L0 to L1 devices and any support or trade-in programs they may offer.
- Check Device Name with Online testing Tools: We have created Biometric Testing Tools compatible with all types of biometric devices. After purchasing a device, use our tools to check whether it is an L0 or L1 device.
Final Thoughts
The discontinuation of L0 biometric devices marks a significant shift towards better security practices in the handling of sensitive biometric data.
As we move towards more secure solutions, it’s crucial for businesses, service providers, and individuals to adapt to these changes to ensure compliance, data protection, and continuity of services.
Transitioning to L1 devices is not just a regulatory necessity but a crucial step toward safeguarding sensitive data in an increasingly digital world.
Stay informed, stay secure!
