Biometric technology has quickly become one of the go-to methods of human identification and authentication, offering numerous benefits over traditional password-based methods, including security and convenience.
Before adopting biometric technology, businesses must understand its various drawbacks and take them into consideration to ensure it serves its intended purpose responsibly and successfully.
Identity Theft
Identity theft is a devastating crime that can have serious repercussions in many aspects of your life. It can cost money and hurt your credit rating while exposing personal details that could cause irreparable damage.
Identity thieves target people’s personal identifying information such as full name, address, email, Social Security Number (SSN), driver’s license number and bank account numbers to commit fraud, file for benefits or make unapproved purchases in their names.
Criminals may gain access to your personal identifying information in various ways, including data breaches, stolen mail and phishing attacks.
Identity thieves often employ malware, or software designed to collect private data directly from computers. Malware attacks have become an increasing risk as more people access social media and online services from their computers.
Fraud
Fraud is a form of dishonesty or deception that results in financial losses for its victims and emotional harm for those involved.
Fraud can result in prison terms, fines and restitution orders; identity theft and fraudulent investments pose particular danger to victims.
Biometric technology can be utilized to detect and prevent fraud through its recognition of unique characteristics that are difficult to forge, such as fingerprints, iris scans and veins.
Biometric security is still in its infancy and must address several concerns before becoming widespread. These include accuracy, stability and accessibility.
Irregular Access
Biometric technology can be an extremely powerful way to gain access to information and services; however, it also raises serious security and privacy issues. Some individuals may not be eligible to enroll in or be recognized by biometric systems due to physical constraints (for instance those with facial hair) or due to cultural norms which limit participation.
However, even those who do not wish to participate can be affected by biometric systems. They could be denied rights due to being members of certain communities, having religious or cultural norms against biometric technology usage, etc.
Security of sensitive medical data has become a top priority due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising cybercrime incidents. Biometric technology offers one powerful solution for protecting sensitive data from unwarranted access by keeping out unauthorised individuals.
Privacy Concerns
Biometric technology’s influence on security can be both positive and negative. While it provides an identity verification system that protects against fraud and theft, it also raises new privacy issues.
Many individuals feel uneasy sharing personal data with government and corporations, especially when biometric systems combine with other forms of identifying information like DNA.
Finding an approach to these concerns can be challenging, but governments can take measures to lessen risks and address this situation.
Governments may utilize technologies that transform biometric data into specific templates designed for specific uses – this may include cancellable biometrics or biometric encryption.