“For the technologies we use to govern our identities, we need a solid foundation and clear proof that our solutions are fit for purpose. We must maintain the strength of the chain from research to practical use and consider the needs of those less comfortable with technology.”
We are happy to announce the appointment of Sven Heiberg as the new Head of Digital Identity Technologies department. As an expert in Internet voting and digital identity technologies, Sven recognises the importance of verifying one’s identity, and SplitKey remains a breakthrough technology for this purpose. Compliance with numerous industry standards and EU regulations for security, authentication, and digital signatures enables SplitKey to become a key technology in e-governance worldwide.
Why did you decide to join Cybernetica?
I first joined Cybernetica in 1999 as a junior programmer. I’ve held several roles, including positions in software architecture and project management over the years. Now, I have rejoined as the Head of Digital Identity Technologies department. I believe I am at the right point in my career to help advance digital identity technology at Cybernetica, while also continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
How has your experience prepared you for your new role at Cybernetica?
In 2004, almost by coincidence, I got involved with the development of Estonian Internet voting system, and it has remained a central part of my professional life ever since.
Since 2014, I have focused solely on Internet voting technologies, contributing to a diverse range of projects. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for the solid foundation provided by Estonian eID and digital signatures that allow us to have a wide spectrum of e-services that we’re almost taking for granted these days.
The challenging fields I’ve worked in at Cybernetica, from digital signature ecosystems and eID to Internet voting, have led me to focus on products grounded in the science of cryptography.
As a result, much of my career has been devoted to translating real-life problems into the language of cryptography and, conversely, making abstract mathematical concepts accessible through practical systems (e.g., enabling voters to express their preferences securely in elections).
I am excited about the prospect of applying my experience with online voting to further advance SplitKey eID technology. Besides, having dedicated my career to some of the most cryptographically-critical technologies of our society, I believe my new position is the organic next step in my career.
What have been the most defining lessons throughout your career?
I have made a ton of wrong decisions and mistakes throughout my career. This has led to the realisation that I cannot stop making neither wrong decisions nor mistakes. Therefore, I go by the motto – if you can't beat them, enjoy them.
Where do you see identity technologies develop in the next 5 years?
I hate to predict the future, but I am confident that some fundamentals will remain unchanged.
For the technologies we use to govern our identities, we need a solid foundation and a way to clearly show that our solutions are fit for purpose. It is essential to maintain the strength of the whole chain, from research to practical use, with each new advancement. At the same time, we must consider the needs of those less comfortable with technology, who may be intimidated by the complexity of modern eID systems and vulnerable to the growing threat of cybercrime.
In this light, what kind of opportunities do you foresee for Cybernetica?
As the architects behind SplitKey technology (Smart-ID), Cybernetica is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the field of digital identity developments, especially in the context of upcoming EU Digital Identity Wallets and quantum computing.
EU Digital Identity Wallets are just around the corner. With their oncome, what kind of benefits do you see for member states collectively?
EU Digital Identity Wallets are part of my learning curve. I see both challenges and opportunities in achieving true interoperability. I will know we have succeeded when I head to the airport and realise that leaving my ID card at home is no longer a problem, because I have my legitimate eID in my smartphone.
And lastly, what are your ambitions at Cybernetica?
My ambition is to increase the footprint of the Splitkey technology through eID and wallets. Backed by Cybernetica’s outstanding in-house research and development capabilities, I am empowered to achieve my goals and drive meaningful progress in digital identity. I look forward to contributing to this innovative environment, support the growth of others, and grow personally as part of the team.