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Machine-readable id documents with biometric data in the EU (by P. de Hert, W. Schreurs, E. Brouwer) |
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Issue 21, 2006
The ability of computers to recognise faces, fingerprints, irises, DNA sequences, human language and other body-related aspects, has provided us with a powerful tool to verify an individual’s identity, and thus to ensure the maintenance of a certain level of security. Biometric technology is no longer in an embryonic development stage. Instead, it is found at the heart of national and international security and immigration policies. The use of biometrics is not without risk, however. Biometric technology incorporated in machine-readable documents allows for enhanced surveillance. In addition, the theft of biometric data, unique by nature, might be far more detrimental for the person concerned than the loss of other personal data. |
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