Knowing Thy Neighbour:
SeaBoard Looks at the Evolution of Identity Technology
May 2006-
Alicia Wanless +1 416-413-1636, IGB Grant +1 514-849-3508, Brian Sharwood
+1 416-413-9381
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
The first in the SeaBoard Sentinel Reports is a two papers series
where we assess the use of emerging technologies to increase the effectiveness
of security measures of identification documents.
In this paper we look at the use of Biometric identifiers and
systems in e-passports; and
In the second paper we examine the use of Radio Frequency Identification
(RFID) tags in Identity (ID) documents and Cards.
Growing threats to worldwide security such as terrorism have pushed
the accurate quick authentication of a person’s identity to the
forefront of security measures – effectively moving the focus
of authentication from identification documents to the identity of
individuals.
Systems using biometric identifiers are being deployed in identification
documents to increase the accuracy and, as a result, certainty of authenticating
identity.
The application of biometrics in identification documents is not
a final solution. Border checkpoints must still be manned, self-service
kiosks should be supervised and errors in matching identities can still
occur.
Biometric identifiers used alone in identification documents
are no more effective than comparing a picture in the document
with the individual holding the document – larger, and
more integrated biometric systems increase the accuracy and effectiveness
of the identification process.
These are highlights of
a full report on the industry available to subscribers. For review copies
for accredited media or information on subscription please contact Sales@SeaBoardGroup.com