In addition to SAMA's instructions related to identifying and verifying the individual customers' identity using documents, data, or information from a reliable and independent source at the commencement/establishment of the relationship "remotely", and stemming from SAMA's keenness to enhance the quality of practices and procedures followed by the financial institutions under its supervision and to mitigate risks.

Accordingly, and based on the development conducted by the relevant authorities to enhance the verification mechanism for users of the (Nafath) application through Biometric Authentication, I inform you that financial institutions are required to adopt the use of this feature when initiating/establishing a relationship remotely. The verification level must be high or above, and financial institutions are required to complete the linking procedures with the accredited service provider before 31/01/2023. They must inform SAMA and write to it in the event of any challenges or inquiries on this matter before the specified date at the email address.

For your information and to act accordingly, effective from this date.

SAMA affirms its commitment to not initiating any "remote" relationships through various channels except by using biometric verification with a high level of authentication or higher. It should be noted that the central bank will take regulatory actions in case of non-compliance with this.