IMPORTANCE OF BIOMETRIC FINGERPRINTING TECHNOLOGY IN VARIOUS SECTORS

Biometric authentication is a type of automated verification/identification technique where an individual’s behavioural or physiological characteristics are assessed. Examples of these traits include gait, fingerprints, iris, etc. The concept of biometrics, particularly fingerprint biometrics has been in existence for over a thousand years. However, it became a part of automated technology in the 1970s.

The use of biometric technology applications became commercialized as the need for controlling access to buildings emerged. The use of fingerprint biometrics continues to develop as the requirement for secured access to logical and physical assets continues to become a top priority.

Listed below, are examples of how fingerprint biometrics are used in various sectors:

Government

Biometric Fingerprint system is readily used in both small and large scale government applications. It provides a scalable, flexible and accurate identification solution for a number of applications such as voter registration, national identification cards, border control and the provision of e-Passports.

For instance, at airport security and border control check points, implementing fingerprint identification eliminates manual identification. This saves time, enables smooth passage for travellers, not to mention boosts tourism and commerce. It also prevents individuals from using fake identity cards.

In terms of identification, a fingerprint-based identity system replaces physical ID proofs. By implementing such a system, governments can provide a seamless and safe access to services. It also helps to create a more reliable database of voter records, as well quick search and access.

Electronic passports are an amalgamation of fingerprint identification and paper passports. This data is stored on a microchip. Governments that have implemented this technology are experiencing a smooth flow at security check points.

Workforce Management

Applying a fingerprint biometric system to attendance and time systems at work eliminates employee time pilfering and reduces payroll inflation. Fingerprint systems enable automated check-in and check-out times. Such a system requires the employee’s physical presence at work; therefore eliminating buddy punching. In addition, fingerprint scanning encourages accountability and increases productivity by generating a tangible audit of all employee transactions. This system also saves time spent on reconciling attendance records which can be used towards other tasks. Company money is also saved with the elimination of plastic ID cards and the costs associated with password resets, lost, stolen and replacement cards.

Banking Sector

Banks and similar financial institutions must protect customer financial information while providing an easy and safe transaction experience for customers. With a fingerprint swipe, customers will be able to gain quick access to banking services and perform necessary transactions. With such a system in place, only a select few authorized employees would have access to sensitive customer data. It also creates an audit trail of all transactions. This system diminishes fraud and encourages government compliance and accountability. With a fingerprint authentication system in place, fraud related to customer and employee transactions are reduced, saving millions of dollars each year.