The Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI) is inviting stakeholders and the public to take part in a 90-day maintenance review of CAN/DGSI 120:2024 – Use of Biometrics for Authentication, a national standard that provides guidance for the responsible and secure use of biometric technologies.
Originally published in March 2024, CAN/DGSI 120:2024 outlines clear requirements for how biometric data should be collected, used, disclosed, and protected. As biometric tools from facial recognition to fingerprint scanning continue to be integrated into everyday services, this standard ensures that implementation remains transparent, accountable, and privacy conscious.
The maintenance review process allows stakeholders to assess whether the standard remains accurate, relevant, and effective in meeting the needs of users and protecting the rights of individuals.
The standard emphasizes:
- Clear and accessible biometric data disclosures
- Voluntary and informed individual consent
- Strong privacy and security safeguards
- Proportional and minimal data collection
- Transparent compliance and audit practices
Developed by DGSI’s Technical Committee 15 on Biometrics, comprised of cybersecurity experts, regulators, and industry leaders, the standard is a critical tool for maintaining digital trust across sectors.
The maintenance review period is open until July 14 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the standard and submit feedback to ensure it continues to reflect current technologies, challenges, and public expectations. Review the standard and submit your input HERE.
Get involved
The DGSI’s development process is collaborative and open to all, and anyone interested in contributing to the development of digital governance standards is encouraged to get involved. For more information on how to participate, contact:
Darryl Kingston
Executive Director
Digital Governance Standards Institute
darryl.kingston@dgc-cgn.org
For further details or media inquiries, please contact:
Shyra Wells
Communications and Knowledge Mobilization Lead
Digital Governance Council
shyra.craig@dgc-cgn.org
About the Digital Governance Standards Institute
The Digital Governance Standards Institute develops digital technology governance standards fit for global use. The Institute works with experts, as well as national and global partners and the public to develop national standards that reduce risk to Canadians and Canadian organizations adopting and using innovative digital technologies in today’s digital economy. The Institute is an independent division of the Digital Governance Council. To learn more about the organization and its initiatives, visit www.dgc-cgn.org or contact info@dgc-cgn.org.