Risks of biometric validation in Honduran telecommunications

The mandatory implementation of biometric validation for mobile phone users in Honduras has generated significant controversy in various spheres, including the political, legal, and social spheres. This measure, promoted by the National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL), establishes that citizens must validate their biometric data before June 1, 2025, to keep their phone lines active. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in the loss of current phone numbers, which has caused concern among the population and various sectors.

The process of biometric verification involves individuals supplying a facial image together with their National Identification Document (DNI) to confirm their identity. CONATEL claims that this effort aims to address offenses such as extortion and the utilization of anonymous phone lines, which impede the efforts of law enforcement. Nonetheless, the action has sparked concerns regarding its legal standing, clarity, and potential impact on personal privacy.

Disputes in law and politics related to biometric authentication

Various political and social actors have expressed concern about the legality and handling of the biometric data collected. Congressman Carlos Umaña, of the Salvadoran Party of Honduras (PSH), has pointed out that the measure lacks adequate legal backing, calling it “completely illegal” and recommending that citizens not comply with the provision until there is a clear regulatory framework governing the collection and use of biometric data by CONATEL. This position reflects a debate about the legitimacy of the measure and the protection of fundamental rights.

Conversely, Roberto Montenegro, leader of the Patriotic Alliance Party, has voiced worries regarding the potential political exploitation of biometric data, particularly during an election year. Montenegro contends that solely the National Registry of Persons (RNP) has the legitimate jurisdiction to manage biometric information, thereby questioning CONATEL’s ability to execute this project. These critiques emphasize apprehensions about the potential political misuse of sensitive information and the necessity to ensure the security and privacy of citizens.

As a response, CONATEL’s leader Lorenzo Sauceda has supported the action, affirming that it is lawful, open, and considerate. He refuted claims that biometric checks serve electoral aims and explained that phone companies, rather than the government, oversee the process. Moreover, he mentioned that the government isn’t forming any new database and that the gathered data will adhere to predetermined uses only, aiming to allay concerns about data usage.

Prospects and future actions in the discussion on biometric authentication

CONATEL has been requested to attend a meeting with the National Congress’s Commission on Security and Citizen Prevention on May 28, 2025, to detail the technical and legal foundations for biometric authentication. This discussion will be crucial for tackling issues related to privacy, legal compliance, and transparency of the procedure, potentially affecting whether this measure persists or changes.

Opinions from the public have been extensively discussed on online platforms and community gatherings, where numerous participants have voiced their discontent and worries regarding potential privacy infringements and the ambiguous nature of the process. A few individuals have mentioned their plan to disregard the verification, doubting the officials’ capacity to shut down millions of phone lines without significantly disrupting communication nationwide.