The digital identity app itsme is expanding its functionality with new security and usability features. These innovations are designed to better protect users against fraud, such as phishing and social engineering, and simplify login and updates.
The itsme app is getting a series of new features designed to protect users against potential scams, such as phishing. When the application detects that a user is receiving an itsme action during a phone call, a clear pop-up appears, warning of a potential scam. This screen does not block the action: the user always retains full control and can decide whether to reject or proceed with the transaction. “The smart warning helps users pause and consciously check what they are about to approve,” says Hannah Cloetens, itsme spokesperson.
Verification screen
Scammers often call victims and pressure them to quickly approve an action. The new pop-up alerts the user to potential fraud without blocking the action. This way, the user retains control but gets the chance to think consciously before approving anything.
“The smart warning helps users pause and consciously check what they are about to approve. In this way, we aim to prevent them from unknowingly complying with a scammer’s instructions,” says Cloetens.
Contextual information
In addition, itsme will now share contextual information about actions with its banking partners. For example, if it concerns a new device or a series of consecutive actions by a new user, this information is anonymized and communicated to banks. Banks use this data to assign a risk score to transactions. If the risk is too high, they can delay or even refuse the transaction. This system operates fully automatically.
“For now, banks are primarily utilizing this new application as part of their own fraud prevention efforts. It goes without saying that other clients with the same risk assessment infrastructure, a risk engine, can also deploy this development,” says Cloetens.
Smart QR code and NFC technology
itsme is also introducing two new features to improve user convenience. Logging in via QR code on desktop will now become the standard method. In 2025, its use increased by more than 25 percent, and today 60 percent of all desktop logins already occur this way.
Finally, updating identity data will become easier. Users with a new identity card can now read the NFC chip of that card via the itsme app. A card reader or ATM is therefore no longer needed to update the data in the app.