Why biometric identification

Identification answers the question, " Who are you? In this case, the person is identified as one, among others 1: N matching. The person's personal data to be identified are compared with other persons stored in the same database or possibly other linked databases.

Authentication answers the question: " Are you really who you say you are? In this case, biometrics allows the person's identity to be certified by comparing the data they provide with pre-recorded data for the person they claim to be matching.

In general, identification requires a centralized biometric database that allows several persons' biometric data to be compared. Authentication can do without such a centralized database. The data can simply be stored on a decentralized device, such as one of our smart cards. For data protection, a process of authentication with a decentralized device is to be preferred.

Such an approach involves less risk. Conversely, if an identification process requiring an external database is used, the user does not have physical control over their data, with all the risks involved. Biometric security offers many advantages to authenticate and identify strongly but is not without controversy.

In practice, data protection authorities seem to give preference to solutions that feature decentralized data devices. The "United Nations Resolution" of 14 December , which sets out guidelines for computerized personal data files regulation, does not have any binding force.

On the contrary, the new E. Note that outside the European Union, the level of protection differs depending on the legislation in force. Assuming — that is — that there is any such legislation. An example is the United States, where three states Illinois, Washington, and Texas protected biometric data, and..

The California Consumer Privacy Act is a significant step forward for the country. It enhances privacy rights and consumer protections for California residents and is applicable as of 1 January To know more about biometric data protection in the E. Thales has its technology which, combined with its impartial stance on the source of biometric data, allows it to help everyone put their trust in the digital world.

Thales is an expert in strong identification solutions with more than civil ID, population registration, and law enforcement projects incorporating biometric security. As an independent force, the company can propose and recommend the most suitable solution in each case.

Thales attaches great importance to assessing risks, which may not always be visible to the general public and private operators' capacity to manage such risks. We remain convinced that biometrics offers significant benefits for guaranteeing identity. Read more. Thales addresses the main concerns around facial recognition, and highlights our vision for the ethical, socially accountable use of the technology. For more information regarding our services and solutions contact one of our sales representatives.

We have agents worldwide that are available to help with your digital security needs. Fill out our contact form and one of our representatives will be in touch to discuss how we can assist you.

Please note we do not sell any products nor offer support directly to end users. If you have questions regarding one of our products provided by e. Biometrics: definition, use cases, latest news. Last updated 02 June What is biometrics? What are the types of biometrics? Who invented biometrics? Why is biometrics controversial? And much more So if you want to go from biometrics beginner to pro, this guide is for you. Biometrics authentication and identification Biometrics allows a person to be identified and authenticated based on recognizable and verifiable data, unique and specific.

Biometric authentication Biometric authentication compares data for the person's characteristics to that person's biometric "template" to determine resemblance. The reference model is first stored. The data stored is then compared to the person's biometric data to be authenticated.

In this mode, the question is: " Are you indeed, Mr or Mrs. The aim is to capture an item of biometric data from this person. It can be a photo of their face, a record of their voice, or an image of their fingerprint. This data is then compared to the biometric data of several other persons kept in a database. Check out our Security and Access Systems hub. Or Create a new project board:. The item has been added to the project board. Go to My Account to view your projects. Sign in to your account.

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Share this Blog Article Email to a friend. Related Blog Articles. There is actually nothing in your voice, hand shape or any biometric measure to tell the computer your name, age or citizenship. At this initial session, your biometric characteristic, such as an eye scan, is recorded and linked to this externally-supplied personal information. At future sessions, the computer links you to the previously supplied information using the same physical characteristic. Once the computer knows your claimed identity, it can usually recognize you whenever you present the required biometric characteristic.

No biometric identification system, however, works perfectly. Problems are generally caused by changes in the physical characteristic. Even fingerprints change as cuts, cracks and dryness in the skin come and go. It is far more likely that the computer will not recognize your enrollment characteristic than link you to the characteristic of someone else, but both types of errors do occur. A positive identification system requires you to identify yourself when submitting a biometric measure.

As the world increases its use of biometric authentication systems like facial recognition technology and other biometric security measures, privacy of users needs to be taken into consideration.

When biometrics are converted into data and stored, particularly in places or countries that have large surveillance measures, a user runs the risk of leaving a permanent digital record that can be potentially tracked by nefarious actors. In many instances, organizations and governments have used facial recognition software to track and identify people with scary accuracy that significantly inhibits privacy[3]. As surveillance increases, biometric data can become a permanent digital tag that can be used to track someone, both with and without their knowledge.

Minimizing demographic bias in biometrics while verifying applicants' identities during digital onboarding is a challenge for providers. Poor implementation of technology or deliberate misuse can result in discrimination and exclusion. Without a proven, document-centric identity proofing solution, cross-demographic performance can be unreliable and limit customer access to essentials like credit and the expanding range of digital services.