Biometrics is not just used for authentication and access control, but is highly beneficial in law enforcement. From some time now, law enforcement agencies across the world have started using biometrics. Collecting biometrics data is helping them in their quest to maintain law and order better.
Globally, the biometrics market is expected to grow at a rate of 16.4%. A significant part of this demand is coming for law enforcement agencies. Bahaa Abdul Hadi looks at the trends likely to hold good in 2023.
Biometrics trends in law enforcement
Handheld devices
Conventionally, biometrics are captured using scanners that are fixed in offices. Whenever law enforcement agencies needed to capture biometrics, they need to take the person to their office. Today hand held scanners are in use. These scanners can be used on the field to capture biometrics and instantly compare with databases.
Biometric databases
Law enforcement agencies like the FBI is building a biometric database. This is a formal database of biometric data that would be very helpful in law enforcement. Apart from fingerprints, agencies are now capturing facial data as well as iris patterns. It would ensure the database is comprehensive. Some estimates suggest that the FBI already has a database of 411.9 million facial images. This trend is going to strengthen with other law enforcement agencies also implementing the same.
Surveillance
One of the controversial issues related to biometrics and law enforcement is surveillance. Many law enforcement agencies are using biometrics for surveillance. Scanners have been installed in many countries that read facial patterns and recognize a person. This can be a boon for law enforcement officers to capture criminals. However, there are concerns raised about privacy and racial bias. In the days to come, more developments are expected on this front.
Voice technology
Another useful application of biometrics is in voice technology. This enables law enforcement officers to use their voice to control functions in their vehicle. As they are driving, they can issue voice commands. Their voice would be recognized by the computer, which would respond appropriately. It makes it easy to even dictate notes or file reports.
Video doorbells
While video doorbells are not new, they now can be used by law enforcement officials for surveillance. These doorbells would have sensors that would capture images of trespassers. These images can be passed on to agencies whose computers can compare the image with a database to identify potential criminals.
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