Biometric technology is increasingly integrated at European and UK borders, with trials for smartphone-based fingerprint enrollment underway. Atos faces criticism for EES delays, while Ghana launches biometric passports. Advances in biometrics promise streamlined travel, but privacy regulations are vital for successful implementation. Australia and PNG are evolving digital ID approaches amid global market growth, with scrutiny on biometric claims in the US.
In recent developments, biometric technology is progressively being implemented at borders throughout Europe and the UK, although several challenges persist. Delays attributed to Atos’ EU Entry-Exit System (EES) are providing the UK additional time to adjust its border policies. Notable initiatives include a trial of biometric self-enrollment technology with firms like Dermalog and iProov, and the introduction of biometric passports in Ghana. The future of travel could further embrace ‘biometrics on the move,’ a concept advocated by Veridos CEO Marc-Julian Siewert.
The UK Home Office is conducting trials for contactless fingerprint enrollment using personal smartphones for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) applications, featuring solutions from prominent developers like iProov and Tech5. However, issues such as technological readiness and associated costs remain under scrutiny as officials brief the Justice and Home Affairs Committee. The ongoing difficulties faced by Atos regarding the EES, which began with missed targets and mounting public scrutiny, suggest a need for a phased implementation approach.
Ghana recently introduced new biometric passports featuring embedded electronic chips to enhance security and streamline travel processes, with the initiative managed by Biometric Travel Solutions and ANY Security Printing. Furthermore, Veridos emphasizes the necessity of applying best practices and regulatory measures for privacy to fully harness biometric advances during border control.
Outside Europe, Australia has revamped its Digital Services Standard and appointed regulators for its digital ID framework, while Papua New Guinea is developing legislation for age verification via digital ID for social media to combat various online threats. In the Maldives, Regula has been contracted to replace Sumsub as the national digital ID provider amid public backlash against the latter.
In the US, the FTC is scrutinizing IntelliVision for unsubstantiated claims regarding its face biometrics accuracy, highlighting the essentiality of evidence in biometric claims. Additionally, the UK is initiating a $25 million tender for live facial recognition software, marking a significant investment in advanced biometric systems. Notably, the global digital identity verification market is projected to grow from $15.2 billion to $26 billion by 2029, with behavioral biometrics, face recognition, and liveness detection anticipated to be pivotal technologies.
Biometric technology refers to the automated recognition of individuals based on their unique biological or behavioral characteristics. Such technologies are increasingly adopted in border control, identification systems, and digital transactions due to their potential to enhance security and streamline authentication processes. The ongoing rollout of various biometric systems necessitates rigorous testing, implementation, and adherence to privacy standards to ensure their effective and responsible use.
The evolving landscape of biometric technology at borders reflects both promise and challenges as innovations aim to enhance security and improve travel experiences. While trials and new implementations like biometric passports signal progress, persistent issues such as technological readiness and privacy concerns need addressing. Effective management of biometric systems will be crucial to realizing their full potential and maintaining public trust.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
