No Biometric Data? Kuwait Banks to Freeze Your Account

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Kuwait’s banking sector is preparing to enforce biometric fingerprint technology across customer accounts, following a mandate from the Ministry of Interior. Citizens who do not comply with the fingerprinting process by the September 30 deadline will face escalating restrictions on their bank accounts and financial transactions.

Banks Upgrade Systems for Biometric Integration

Kuwaiti banks have started updating their systems to incorporate biometric fingerprint technology, a move driven by the Ministry of Interior's directive. Citizens must provide their biometric fingerprints by the end of September, or they will face significant consequences, including the suspension of all transactions with the Ministry of Interior.

Step-by-Step Account Restrictions

In response to the Ministry’s directive, the Central Bank of Kuwait has instructed all banks to comply with the fingerprinting requirement. The account restrictions for non-compliant citizens will unfold in four phases:

1. Alert Notifications: Starting this week, banks will send out notifications to affected customers, urging them to complete the biometric fingerprint process within the given timeframe.

2. Online Transaction Block: From September 30, customers who have not provided their fingerprints will lose access to electronic services. This will prevent them from checking account balances, obtaining statements, and transferring funds online.

3. Card Deactivation: By October 31, all bank cards belonging to non-compliant customers will be deactivated.

4. Account Freeze: Beginning December 1, accounts of those who fail to comply will be fully frozen, including their bank balances.

Broader Financial Impact

The freeze won’t just apply to bank accounts. Sources indicate that it will extend to all financial assets, including shares, funds, portfolios, and other assets managed by private or government entities. Any proceeds from transactions, such as the sale of shares or real estate, will be transferred to the frozen accounts. However, installment payments from these accounts may continue to be deducted to satisfy creditors, whether they are financial institutions or government agencies.