Biometric Systems Coming to All Public Transport in Russia by 2024

According to the Russian Ministry of Transport, the country’s public transportation system will soon operate using a new, more advanced system. By 2024, biometric identification systems will be implemented across all types of public transport in Russia. This announcement was made by Transport Minister Vitaly Savelyev during the “New Knowledge” marathon.

Biometric technology will allow passengers to pay fares without using traditional payment methods. In July, the Ministry introduced its Digital Transformation Strategy through 2030. This initiative aims to enable passengers to use biometric data to pay for rides and pass security checks at airports and train stations.

As previously reported, starting October 15, all stations of the Moscow Metro will offer fare payment via facial recognition (FacePay). The new payment method will be made possible by a facial recognition system. To use it, passengers will need to take a photo of themselves in a special mobile app and upload it to the transportation information system. After registration, the system will automatically recognize the passenger by their photo and deduct the fare from their specified account, bank card, or Troika card.