The Belizean police have paused their partnership with Biometrica over data privacy concerns regarding the overseas transfer of local biometric data. Commissioner Chester Williams emphasized the need for a solution that keeps Belizean data within the country. The state is also developing a national biometric strategy approved by the Cabinet, in light of privacy issues related to biometric technology.
Police in Belize have halted their collaboration with the U.S.-based facial recognition firm Biometrica due to apprehensions regarding the international transfer of sensitive data. This initiative aimed to enhance the identification and tracking of criminal suspects in Belize, a favored destination for tourists in Central America. The planned partnership would necessitate the sharing of Belize’s criminal database, which includes vital biometric fingerprint data, with Biometrica. In response to these concerns, Belize’s Police Commissioner Chester Williams announced that the agreement is currently suspended while officials explore alternatives to secure Belizean data away from foreign jurisdiction. Williams indicated that if an arrangement cannot be devised to maintain data locally, Belize may seek a different provider for their biometric software solutions. “Perhaps if it is that they can develop a software and then we just get that software without exchanging data where we can keep our data in-house then we may be able to go with that,” Williams stated. He further mentioned that Biometrica has encountered challenges with its software in other Caribbean nations, as cited by Channel 5 Belize. Biometrica is noted for its engagement with U.S. law enforcement agencies, having developed the eMotive criminal background checking software used by the International Center for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) to track potential child abusers and traffickers utilizing facial biometrics. Furthermore, Belize is working on a national biometric strategy, which received approval from the Cabinet in June.
The partnership between Belize and Biometrica underlines a significant move towards modernizing law enforcement with biometric technology in Central America. Biometric identification systems use unique physical or behavioral characteristics to identify individuals, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of criminal investigations. However, the movement of sensitive personal data, especially across national borders, raises substantial concerns regarding privacy and data protection, which Belize is prioritizing in its negotiations with Biometrica.
The pause on the Biometrica project in Belize highlights critical issues surrounding data sovereignty and privacy in the implementation of biometric technologies. The Belizean police are actively seeking solutions that would allow them to utilize biometric recognition technology while safeguarding sensitive data within their jurisdiction. As the situation evolves, Belize may reconsider its options, including other software providers, if an in-house solution is not feasible.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
