An amendment has been tabled to reduce the risk of identity theft from birth records.

A review by the Registry General identified concerns relating to the unrestricted public availability of certified copies of birth certificates.

Meanwhile, the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee Working Group identified this issue as a potential vulnerability that could facilitate identity theft, financial fraud and other forms of misuse involving personal information.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: “While Bermuda has long maintained a system that promotes transparency through access to such public records, it is now necessary to ensure that appropriate safeguards exist to protect sensitive personal information from exploitation.

“The public inspection of birth registers will remain available in accordance with existing practices, and historical records will continue to become publicly accessible after an appropriate period of time.”

Mr Hayward said the proposed changes would strike a balance between protecting personal information and ensuring that those with a lawful need for access can continue to obtain certified copies of birth certificates.

He added: “Birth certificates are among the most important identity documents issued by the Government.

“They are frequently used to establish identity when applying for passports, driver's licences, financial services, immigration benefits and a wide range of other official documents and services.

“As society becomes increasingly dependent on identity verification, governments around the world must ensure that personal information is protected against misuse, fraud and other unlawful activities.”