Biometrics, Overview

Biometric systems have been researched and tested for a few decades, but have only recently entered into the public consciousness because of high profile applications, usage in entertainment media (though often not realistically) and increased usage by the public in day-to-day activities. Example deployments within the United States Government include the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), the US-VISIT program, the Transportation Workers Identification Credentials (TWIC) program, and the Registered Traveler (RT) program. Many companies are also implementing biometric technologies to secure areas, maintain time records, and enhance user convenience. For example, for many years Disney World has employed biometric devices for season ticket holders to expedite and simplify the process of entering its parks, while ensuring that the ticket is used only by the individual to whom it was issued.