Is Google Wallet’s New Passport Feature a Hack or a Risk?
Published On: February 7, 2025
Google has introduced a new feature that allows users to store a digital version of their U.S. passport in Google Wallet, making it easier to navigate airport security. While the feature does not replace a physical passport, it is now accepted at select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints across the country.
The new addition to Google Wallet enables users to create a digital ID pass by scanning the security chip on the back of their passport and completing identity verification with a selfie. The feature is currently being rolled out to eligible users and is expected to be widely available in the coming weeks.
According to Google, the digital passport can only be used for identity verification at TSA security checkpoints in over 20 states, including California, Texas, and Florida. However, it cannot be used at immigration or border control, meaning travelers will still need to carry their physical passports for international travel.
How It Works
To add a passport to Google Wallet, users must:
- Open the Google Wallet app
- Select the prompt to create an ID pass
- Scan the passport’s security chip
- Take a selfie for identity verification
Once added, travelers can present their digital passports at supported TSA checkpoints by tapping their phone or smartwatch.
Despite the convenience, the feature is not available to all users. Google Wallet requires Android 9 or higher, meaning older devices running Android 8 or earlier will not support the digital passport. Additionally, the feature is only available on smartwatches running Wear OS 2.18 or later.
The TSA has also emphasized that while digital IDs are a step toward modernization, passengers should continue carrying a physical ID in case of technical issues or system limitations.
Google’s digital passport feature follows a trend of adoption of digital identification. Apple Wallet previously introduced digital driver’s licenses, which are now accepted at TSA checkpoints in select states, including Arizona, California, and Georgia. Android users in some states, including California and soon Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio, can also store their state-issued IDs in Google Wallet.
The TSA has been expanding support for digital verification through initiatives like the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app, which allows travelers to submit passport information in advance for faster reentry into the U.S.
While digital IDs are designed for convenience, they also pose significant security risks. Google has been targeted by hackers in the past, and a breach of sensitive identification data could have serious consequences for users. Cybercriminals may exploit vulnerabilities in digital wallets, potentially accessing passport details and other personal information.
To mitigate these risks, travelers are advised to take extra precautions. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) while accessing Google Wallet can add a layer of security, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi at airports. A VPN encrypts internet traffic, reducing the risk of hackers intercepting personal data.