Is biometric validation safe in Honduras?

The enforced application of biometric verification for cell phone users in Honduras has stirred notable debate in several areas, such as political, legal, and social domains. This initiative, driven by the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL), demands that individuals confirm their biometric information by June 1, 2025, to maintain their phone services operational. Not adhering to this mandate might lead to losing existing phone numbers, causing unease among citizens and different groups.

The biometric verification process necessitates that users submit a picture of their face along with their National Identification Document (DNI) for identity confirmation. CONATEL claims this initiative aims to address crimes like extortion and the misuse of anonymous phone lines, which obstruct law enforcement efforts. Nevertheless, this measure has led to concerns regarding its legality, clarity, and potential impact on individuals’ privacy.

Debates on legal and political issues related to biometric verification

Several political and social figures have raised issues regarding the legal aspects and administration of the gathered biometric information. Congressman Carlos Umaña, representing the Salvadoran Party of Honduras (PSH), criticized the initiative by stating it lacks proper legal grounding, labeling it as “entirely unlawful” and advising that individuals refrain from adhering to the ruling until a defined regulatory structure is established to oversee the gathering and usage of biometric data by CONATEL. This stance highlights a discussion concerning the measure’s validity and the safeguarding of basic rights.

Conversely, Roberto Montenegro, who leads the Patriotic Alliance Party, has voiced worries regarding the potential political use of biometric data, particularly during an election year. Montenegro contends that the National Registry of Persons (RNP) is the sole entity with legal rights to manage biometric information, raising doubts about CONATEL’s ability to execute this plan. These critiques underscore issues about potential political exploitation of sensitive data and the necessity to ensure the security and privacy of the population.

In reaction, CONATEL president Lorenzo Sauceda has supported the action, affirming that it is lawful, clear, and considerate. He has refuted any claim that biometric validation has electoral objectives and explained that the procedure is controlled by phone companies, not directly by the government. He additionally mentioned that no new state database is being developed and that the gathered information will not be utilized for any purposes other than those already outlined, aiming to address concerns about data usage.

Perspectives and future actions in the discussion about biometric authentication

CONATEL has been called to present in front of the National Congress’s Security and Citizen Prevention Commission on May 28, 2025. They are expected to clarify the technological and legal groundwork for biometric validation. This meeting will play a crucial role in tackling worries related to privacy, legality, and transparency of the procedure and might affect whether the policy persists or undergoes changes.

The topic of public opinion has been extensively discussed on social platforms and community forums, with numerous individuals voicing their displeasure and worry regarding the potential breach of their privacy and the ambiguity surrounding the execution. A few have even mentioned their plans to disregard the validation, challenging the capacity of the authorities to disconnect millions of phone lines without significantly disrupting communications nationwide.