Biometric data refers to the unique, measurable biological characteristics used to identify individuals. This data can include physical or behavioural traits, such as fingerprints, facial patterns, voice or typing cadence, and more. In the context of data privacy, biometric data is particularly sensitive due to its inherent uniqueness and the potential for misuse if it falls into the wrong hands.
As technology continues to advance, the use of biometric data for identification and authentication purposes is becoming increasingly common. However, this also raises significant privacy concerns. This glossary entry aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of biometric data, its uses, potential risks, and the legal frameworks in place to protect it.
Types of Biometric Data
Biometric data can be broadly classified into two categories: physiological and behavioural. Physiological biometrics are based on the physical characteristics of an individual, while behavioural biometrics are based on the unique ways in which individuals act.
It's important to note that while some types of biometric data are more commonly used than others, the type of biometric data used often depends on the specific requirements of the system in which it is being used.
Physiological Biometrics
Physiological biometrics are based on the physical characteristics of an individual. These can include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris recognition, and more. These types of biometrics are often used in security systems due to their high level of accuracy.
For example, fingerprint recognition is one of the most commonly used types of physiological biometrics. This is because fingerprints are unique to each individual, and the technology for capturing and comparing fingerprints is relatively mature and reliable.
Behavioural Biometrics
Behavioural biometrics, on the other hand, are based on the unique ways in which individuals act. This can include things like the way an individual types, their voice, or even their gait. While these types of biometrics can be more difficult to capture and analyse, they can provide a higher level of security as they are more difficult to replicate.
For example, voice recognition technology can be used to identify an individual based on their unique vocal characteristics. This type of biometric data can be used in a variety of applications, from phone banking services to smart home devices.
Uses of Biometric Data
Biometric data is used in various contexts, from security and law enforcement to consumer technology. While it can provide a high level of security and convenience, it also raises significant privacy concerns.
For example, biometric data is often used in security systems to control access to physical and digital spaces. This can include fingerprint scanners at a building's entrance or facial recognition technology used to unlock a smartphone.
Security and Law Enforcement
Biometric data can be used to identify individuals in various contexts in security and law enforcement. For example, law enforcement agencies often use fingerprint and facial recognition technology to identify suspects or victims in criminal investigations.
Similarly, biometric data can also be used in border control and immigration contexts. For example, some countries use biometric data such as fingerprints or facial scans to verify the identities of individuals entering or leaving the country.
Consumer Technology
In consumer technology, biometric data is often used to provide a more personalised and convenient user experience. For example, many smartphones now come equipped with fingerprint scanners or facial recognition technology that allows users to unlock their devices without having to enter a password.
Similarly, voice recognition technology is becoming increasingly common in smart home devices, allowing users to control their devices using voice commands. However, the use of biometric data in consumer technology also raises significant privacy concerns, as this data can be used to track and profile individuals without their knowledge or consent.
Risks Associated with Biometric Data
While the use of biometric data can provide many benefits, it also comes with significant risks. One of the main risks associated with biometric data is the potential for it to be misused or stolen. Unlike passwords or PIN numbers, biometric data cannot be changed if it falls into the wrong hands.
Another risk associated with biometric data is the potential for it to be used to track and profile individuals without their knowledge or consent. This can lead to significant privacy concerns, particularly in the context of consumer technology.
Data Breaches
One of the main risks associated with biometric data is the potential for it to be stolen in a data breach. Because biometric data is unique and cannot be changed, once it is stolen, it can be used to commit identity theft or other types of fraud.
For example, in 2015, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) suffered a data breach that resulted in the theft of fingerprint data belonging to 5.6 million federal employees. This breach highlighted the significant risks associated with storing and securing biometric data.
Privacy Concerns
Another major concern with biometric data is the potential for it to be used to track and profile individuals without their knowledge or consent. This can be particularly concerning in the context of consumer technology, where companies may collect and use biometric data for purposes such as targeted advertising.
For example, some smart home devices use voice recognition technology to identify individual users and personalise their experience. However, this data can also be used to create detailed profiles of individuals' habits and preferences, raising significant privacy concerns.
Legal Frameworks for Protecting Biometric Data
Given the sensitive nature of biometric data, several legal frameworks are in place around the world designed to protect it. These laws often require organisations to obtain consent before collecting biometric data and to take steps to secure this data and protect it from misuse.
However, these laws vary widely from country to country, and in many cases, they are still evolving to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) provides comprehensive protections for personal data, including biometric data. Under the GDPR, biometric data is considered a special category of personal data, and organisations must obtain explicit consent before collecting it.
The GDPR also requires organisations to take steps to secure biometric data and to notify individuals and authorities in the event of a data breach. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant fines.
Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA)
The legal landscape for biometric data in the United States is more fragmented. However, some states have enacted laws specifically designed to protect biometric data. For example, the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) requires organisations to obtain consent before collecting biometric data and to store this data securely.
Unlike the GDPR, BIPA also allows individuals to sue organisations that violate these requirements, potentially resulting in significant financial penalties for non-compliance.
Conclusion
Biometric data is a powerful tool for identification and authentication, but it also raises significant privacy concerns. As the use of biometric data continues to grow, it is crucial for individuals and organisations to understand the risks associated with this data and to take steps to protect it.
At the same time, legal frameworks for protecting biometric data are still evolving. As such, organisations must stay abreast of these changes and ensure they are in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
