Facial recognition, RFID, and fingerprints are the most common forms of biometric evidence used in schools. However, other technologies, such as iris recognition and RFID, can also be used. These technologies are not always the most secure. In addition, biometric data is sensitive and cannot always be shared with law enforcement. This is why identifying a suspect with biometric evidence is so important.
Fingerprints:
School officials use fingerprints as biometric evidence for various purposes. These prints are unique because each individual has a distinct set of points and ridges. Only trained fingerprint experts can properly identify a person’s fingerprints. Fingerprints can be identical or different depending on whether any issues are missing. Fingerprints can also be visible or latent. You can view the former type with a flashlight or special ultraviolet light. Sometimes, fingerprint experts use special adhesives or powders to lift the prints.
While biometrics have great benefits, they are also fraught with risks. One of the most commonly discussed risks is violating biometric privacy laws. Different states have passed laws governing the use of biometric data. As a result, employers must provide specific notice to employees before using biometrics in the workplace. In many cases, there are heavy penalties for violating these laws.
Facial recognition:
Although face recognition is becoming a widely used biometric technology for identification purposes, concerns over racial discrimination remain. You can use it to identify individuals by comparing photos to mugshots or driver’s license images, but the technology is unregulated and can be problematic for people of colour. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has published several reports assessing the accuracy of face recognition.
Schools do not store children’s fingerprints but instead collect data about the child using an automated system. This data can be used in the same way as a fingerprint image. It is created as a series of digits recognizing the child’s fingerprint. Schools must also comply with the Human Rights Act and the Protection of Freedoms Act when collecting biometric data on children.
RFID:
While video surveillance and metal detectors have long been used in schools, new military technologies are being introduced into schools. Biometric systems with prison applications have already been implemented in some high schools. Computer programs are being developed to check visitors’ identities against a sex offender list. Radiofrequency identification (RFID) is another technology being promoted for school use. It was initially created for military purposes and has become more common in schools.
Other biometric technologies:
The growing use of facial recognition and other biometric technologies in school environments has prompted concerns about privacy and the ability of schools to keep track of their students. While this technology is still in its infancy, many schools have already adopted it. At least one school has even received free facial recognition technology. The technologies are increasingly becoming mainstream, and schools are increasingly using them to keep tabs on students’ attendance, check out library books, and pay for meals.
Privacy issues:
With the use of biometrics becoming commonplace in schools, privacy concerns are rising. While the Department of Education does not track how many schools use biometric evidence, it is estimated that more than a million secondary schoolchildren had their fingerprints taken. Biometrics are increasingly being used to grant technology access and track students’ attendance.
However, concerns over privacy and storage capacity have risen with biometric evidence. The first step to addressing privacy concerns is for school districts to educate parents and students about the potential uses of biometrics and set up appropriate safeguards for the biometric data collected. Additionally, schools should audit their databases for potential data leaks.
Author Bio:
Carmen Troy is a research-based content writer, who works for Cognizantt, a globally recognized professional SEO service and Research Prospect; an 论文和论文写作服务 Mr Carmen holds a PhD degree in mass communication. He loves to express his views on various issues, including education, technology, and more.
