Technology
132 Exploring the Applications and Ethics of Biometric Data in the Digital Age
Understanding the Benefits, Risks, and Ethical Concerns
Keegan Ryan
Biometric Data and Privacy: Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
In recent years, biometric technologies have become an increasingly common method of identification and security, and this booming service lies right on the intersection of science, technology, and society. From facial recognition systems at airports to fingerprint scanners on smartphones, these innovations are revolutionizing how we interact with technology and raise important questions about their broader societal impact. The science behind biometrics, grounded in fields like computer vision, data analysis, and physiology, enables the development of highly secure and efficient identification systems. However, as the adoption of these technologies grows, so too does the need to consider their implications for personal privacy and ethical concerns. While biometrics offer significant benefits in terms of security and convenience, they also introduce new risks regarding how our most personal data is collected, stored, and potentially exploited, demanding careful reflection on how these technologies will shape our lives moving forward. This chapter will explore the scientific principles behind biometrics, examine consumer rights, and discuss both the benefits and the risks associated with their use in society.
Photo by Lee Soo hyun on Unsplash
Biometric Technologies: Background and Context
Biometrics refers to the use of unique physical characteristics—such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans—to identify individuals. These characteristics are distinctive to each person, making them a reliable form of identification. Over the last few decades, the application of biometric data has expanded beyond high-security environments like airports and government buildings to everyday consumer products, such as smartphones and fitness trackers. According to Birmingham and Turner (2017), the integration of biometric data into personal devices and larger infrastructure systems has been driven by technological advancements in machine learning and sensor technology. Biometric systems typically use both hardware (sensors or cameras) and software to capture and analyze physical traits for identification. However, as these systems become more ubiquitous, the conversation around privacy and regulation intensifies (Birmingham & Turner, 2017). The U.S. Department of Homeland Security also emphasizes that biometric technology is critical for enhancing national security and identity management, although the increased use of these technologies comes with the need for robust privacy protections (DHS, 2020).
Consumer Rights: What You Need to Know
As biometric systems become more integrated into daily life, consumers need to be aware of their rights when it comes to how their biometric data is collected and used. One of the primary concerns with biometric data is its permanence—unlike a password, biometric traits cannot be changed if stolen. In the U.S., various states, such as Illinois with its Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), have implemented legislation that requires companies to obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting biometric data, and to provide clear policies on how this data will be stored and used (Schlosser, 2021). The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has further highlighted the risks of misuse, warning that companies may improperly share or exploit consumers’ biometric data without proper consent (FTC, 2023). For instance, the FTC’s 2023 report underscores how consumers must be informed about what biometric data is being collected and have the ability to control its use. Internationally, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) offers similar protections, giving consumers the right to access, rectify, and erase their data (European Commission, 2023). These frameworks help ensure that individuals’ privacy is respected and provide recourse in case of violations.
The Benefits of Biometric Technology
Biometric technology has numerous advantages, particularly in terms of security and convenience. One of the most significant benefits is its enhanced security compared to traditional authentication methods such as passwords or PINs. As biometrics are based on unique physical characteristics, they are difficult to replicate, making them a more secure form of identification. According to the Department of Homeland Security, biometric systems play a key role in improving the security of sensitive environments, such as airports, borders, and government buildings (DHS, 2020). They are also becoming an essential feature in consumer devices like smartphones, where fingerprint scanners and facial recognition offer a quick and reliable way to access personal data without the need for complex passwords. Additionally, biometric authentication systems can be particularly beneficial for individuals with physical disabilities, as they provide an easy and accurate means of identification without the need for manual inputs (Birmingham & Turner, 2017). Overall, biometric systems not only offer a boost in security but also help improve user experience by making interactions with technology faster and more seamless.
The Risks of Biometric Technology
Despite their many benefits, biometric technologies also present significant risks, particularly regarding privacy and data security. One of the primary concerns is the potential for data breaches. Since biometric data is uniquely tied to an individual’s identity, if this data is compromised, it cannot be “reset” like a password. Hackers gaining access to a biometric database could cause long-term damage to consumers, including identity theft or fraud. Birmingham and Turner (2017) caution that centralized databases storing biometric data could become prime targets for cybercriminals, raising the stakes of data protection. Moreover, the widespread use of biometric surveillance systems—especially facial recognition—has raised concerns about overreach and the erosion of privacy. Studies have shown that facial recognition technology is not always accurate and can display biases, especially in identifying people of color or women (Garvie, 2020). This could lead to unfair treatment and discrimination. Additionally, the use of biometric data for surveillance purposes could infringe upon individuals’ freedoms and contribute to a “big brother” society, where people are constantly monitored without their consent (Schlosser, 2021).
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Biometrics
As biometric technologies continue to evolve, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed about both the benefits and risks associated with their use. On one hand, biometrics offer significant advantages in terms of security, convenience, and accessibility. On the other hand, these technologies introduce new challenges regarding data privacy, security, and the potential for misuse. By understanding their rights and responsibilities, consumers can take proactive steps to protect their personal information. At the same time, policymakers and businesses must work together to ensure that regulations and safeguards are in place to protect individuals’ biometric data from exploitation. In the end, the responsible use of biometric technology holds the potential to enhance security and improve quality of life, but it requires careful attention to privacy concerns and ethical considerations.
References
Birmingham, M., & Turner, I. (2017). Biometrics: Your body and the science of security. OK Books.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). (2023, May 22). FTC warns about misuses of biometric information that harm consumers. Retrieved from https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/05/ftc-warns-about-misuses-biometric-information-harm-consumers
Department of Homeland Security (DHS). (2020). Biometrics and identity management. Retrieved from https://www.dhs.gov/biometrics
Garvie, C. (2020). The problem with facial recognition technology: A racial bias concern. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/48563659
Schlosser, E. (2021). The evolving role of biometric data in consumer protection law. North Carolina Journal of Law & Technology, 22(2), 122-145. Retrieved from https://scholarship.law.unc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1357&context=ncjolt
European Commission. (2023). General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection_en
Microsoft. (2024). Microsoft CoPilot [Software]. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilot
This project was created with the help of Microsoft CoPilot and revised by Keegan Ryan
Images:
Hyun, L. S. (2019, July 7). man near card terminal. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/man-near-card-terminal-8qCwdJ0CC7k
Spiske, M. (2017, February 14). Colorful software or web code on a computer monitor. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/colorful-software-or-web-code-on-a-computer-monitor-Skf7HxARcoc