Prepare to be scanned
While it may appear that the introduction of biometrics as a security measure is now inevitable, the necessity of introducing biometrics is still a moot point. Although national debates are underway in several countries on how desirable the technology is, a wider examination of its implications is yet to take place. "Biometrics seem headed for dramatic growth in the next few years. But calm, public discussion of their benefits and drawbacks has been lamentably lacking" wrote The Economist way back in December 2003. Biometric technology is nothing new. The use of DNA and genetics as identifiers have already been used in forensics. However, new problems will arise if they are used more generally. One of the main concerns is that instead of increasing our level of security, it will be used merely as a tool to further reinforce the foundations of a surveillance society. Biometrics uses physical or behavioural information to identify a person. The data used can range from fingerprints, to iris scans, to DNA. The most likely application of the technology will involve comparing the information obtained from someone on the spot with that stored in a databank in order to verify identity. Proponents claim that biometrics could thus contribute significantly towards security at a time when global terrorism is a credible threat to countries around the world. In this context, airports and border control centers have been touted as the first potential users. Indeed, in some places, such as US international airports, it has already been implemented to a certain extent.
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