The eID function

The eID function (eID = electronic identity) is used to identify yourself and your counterpart on the Internet and at self-service terminals securely and unequivocally.

Your data is always protected when using your eID. This is important because without the eID, identity theft is common on the internet: someone gains access to your identification data – such as your usernames and passwords – assumes your identity, and acts on your behalf. Your eID protects you from this.

The pseudonym function

Many service providers allow you to use their online services with a pseudonym. Your personal data is then only required for the first registration. The online service will then recognise you by your pseudonym after you have entered your PIN.

Because of the pseudonym, no usage profiles can be created across different online services or providers. This greatly enhances the protection of your personal data.

The pseudonym is not permanently bound to you as a person, but to your valid ID card and the authorised service you use with the pseudonym function.

Please note: By linking the pseudonym to the valid ID card, the pseudonym changes when you receive a new ID card. After a change of ID card, you may be required to re-register with the new ID card. In this case, your pseudonym will then work with the new ID card.

To avoid this issue, it is advisable to inform the provider of the online service you are using under a pseudonym in advance about the upcoming change of your ID card. The provider can then advise you on how to renew your pseudonym.

The signature function

This function can be used to sign digital documents in a legally binding manner – as an expression of your will.

A qualified electronic signature on a document fulfils the legal requirement for written form (§ 126 in conjunction with § 126a of the German Civil Code – BGB) and is equivalent to a handwritten signature. The legal basis for the qualified electronic signature is established in Article 25 of the eIDAS Regulation. The eIDAS Regulation also enables what is known as remote signing. With remote signing, a qualified electronic signature is no longer created using a signature card, but instead by a qualified trust service provider on behalf of the signatory. Before a remote signature can be generated, the signatory must securely prove their identity to the trust service provider. A fast and secure way to do this is by using the eID.

You can find detailed information on the eIDAS compliant remote signature with eID here.

The biometric function

Your photograph, fingerprints, and the printed physical characteristics are stored exclusively on the chip of your ID card. There is no central biometric database. Only certain public authorities (e.g. police and border authorities) have the right to retrieve these data:

• Police authorities
• Customs administration
• State tax investigation offices
• ID issuing and registration authorities

Fingerprints can only be read using an official authorisation certificate.

Authorised authorities compare the photograph and fingerprints stored on the chip with those of the person presenting the ID card.

Biometric data serves solely to strongly link the ID card to its holder. Attempts at fraud using lost or stolen ID cards can be quickly detected.

Your photograph and fingerprints are never accessed without your knowledge.