New passport design unveiled with ‘enhanced security features’

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A new design for UK passports is aimed at offering better security for citizens, according to the Government department responsible.

The Home Office revealed the revamped design, claiming the enhanced security features would protect people from identity theft and fraud, as well as speeding up the process of travelling abroad.

Current UK passports – or ePassports as launched in 2006 – contain a visible chip holding all of the owner’s details. This chip has been moved to be concealed in the cover, which the Government has claimed will improve both physical protection and make it harder to replace without obvious signs of tampering.

There will also be a secondary image of the passport holder, as well as a new transparent covering with a number of holograms.

Sarah Rapson, chief executive (CEO) of the Identity and Passport Service, said: "Through its combination of physical and electronic security features, the UK passport remains one of the most secure and trusted documents in the world, meeting rigorous international standards.”

"The new design is part of our strategy to stay ahead of criminals who look to fraudulently alter or copy passports.”

The new passports will be issued from October.

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