Live-Scan Fingerprinting Improves Accuracy And Saves Time

By Sherry Gross


Traditional methods of personal identification based on skin patterns have been used since 1858. The procedure normally requires pressing a single digit onto an ink pad, and then rolling it on a piece of paper to create an outline of fingertip ridges. Getting a good image may require several attempts, and ink-stains are a common hazard. Live-scan fingerprinting eliminates the mess and increases accuracy.

There are few adults who have never been printed at least once. Many people have concerns about government or big business having easy access to a database confirming not only personal identity, but also a substantial amount of linked information. All systems can potentially be abused, but using digital forms of obtaining prints is simply the next step in modernizing an already existing technology.

Digital identification is not a new concept. Many agencies and corporations today already use biometrics, or the measurement of individual physical characteristics, in some security systems, and also in law enforcement procedures. Retinal scans compare individual eye characteristics, as do ear-shape scans. Vocal analysis has become prominent, and DNA analysis provides the most accurate personal identifiers.

Even though most people are not considered criminal, there are instances when verification is absolutely necessary. Even a part-time governmental job performed by old fashioned means, such as census-taking, requires a background check that includes fingerprinting. Most civilian jobs also require a basic level of background investigation, and many, such as teaching, piloting an aircraft or dispensing pharmaceuticals, require an in-depth investigation.

Because big data samples every Internet session or phone conversation, it is easy to fear a huge, connected information base containing a personal history. In reality, a universal, transparent system that is available to all branches of government or business does not yet exist on a practical level. Privacy laws currently prevent unrestricted sharing of confidential information. Each request requires another live scan.

Today, a system dubbed the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System, or IAFIS, has the ability to return print requests within thirty minutes. Along with criminal records, including mug shots, it can easily ID around 50 million citizens. It is also used to process various licenses, employee screening requests, and applications for social and government services. The remote field machines resemble a small copier.

It is not possible to buy secondhand equipment, and then use it to gather information for profit. Most states require purchase through an official vendor, and unauthorized requests or transmissions will fail. Common components include the primary palm or print scanner, a secured network for transmitting and receiving, specialized computer software, and thorough operator training.

This technology eliminates the wait-period of three to eight weeks common when older methods are used. Digital scanning is not only quicker, but is far more accurate. Any errors that do affect the original are detected and re-imaged immediately, often at no additional cost. For the customer, the experience takes less than five minutes, and there are no ugly stains. Waiting in line is nearly eliminated, and results often arrive in two days.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment