VFS Global Faces Scrutiny Over Data Security Issues in Visa Processing

• •VFS Global is under investigation for data security issues at its visa processing centres.
• •Biometric data of applicants was found stored unencrypted and shared insecurely.
• •The company denies wrongdoing and claims to operate under strict government oversight.

VFS Global, the world's largest visa outsourcing company, is under scrutiny following an investigation by Lighthouse Reports that revealed serious data security concerns at its visa centres across Europe. The investigation reviewed 150 inspection reports from 20 EU member states, highlighting that applicants' biometric data was stored on unencrypted devices and shared through unsecured email systems. This raises significant risks for the personal information of millions of visa applicants, particularly over one million Indians applying for Schengen visas annually. Additionally, issues of 'visa shopping' and fraudulent appointment bookings were noted, although these were primarily linked to third-party agents rather than VFS Global itself. The company has denied the allegations, asserting that it operates under strict oversight and that all optional services are clearly communicated to applicants. The scrutiny reflects broader concerns about the privatization of visa processing and its implications for data security and applicant experience.