Biometrics an Identity Theft
There have been a number of security measures implemented by banks, government institutions and many other organizations in order to prevent identity theft. Whether it is pictures, encoded data or holographic images, the unwavering will of criminals has found a way around nearly every single security precaution in place. Rather than one size fits all safety features, the new science now relies on the use of an individual’s unique and distinct identifiers to thwart thieves.
Biometrics, the measuring of behaviors or physical traits specifically unique to an individual, ensures criminals will have a much harder time using someone else’s identity. While the technology to reproduce photo ID’s with holographic images may be widely available, reproducing a person’s fingerprint or iris pattern presents quite a quandary for identity thieves.
Despite that some of their methods for gathering information are quite simple, many millions of dollars have been spent over the years trying to stay one step ahead of identity thieves. The amount of loss that banks, credit card companies and even hospitals incur as a result of identity theft runs in the billions. Many feel much of this has to do with the lack of identifying information on Social Security cards despite their vital importance in obtaining loans and other benefits. There is no picture, address or other feature to ensure that the individual in possession of the card is who they say they are. Even if there was, many also feel it is unlikely it would hinder a skilled identity thief.
Biometrics offers the promise of a more than efficient way to impede fraudsters. By requiring a thumbprint on driver’s licenses, one’s unique traits would be on record for future reference. If a fraudster attempted to use his or her thumbprint, not only would they be caught, their identifying information would be on record for future reference. This can also be of use in credit card transactions and wherever large financial exchanges take place. Other methods, such as iris scans, could be useful in hospitals where medical identity fraud has skyrocketed in the last several years. It would also be helpful in situations where patients are incapacitated and with no means of identification.
Though biometrics is largely used in areas of government where the most sensitive of information is kept, some methods are beginning to surface in a number of places around the globe. After being hit hard by identity thieves, a number of check cashing outfits now require individuals to present their thumb or index finger for printing in order to obtain services. This is in addition to presenting a current picture ID.
Those companies already using certain versions of biometrics in their daily business transactions have seen a marked reduction in problems with identity theft. Developers are now working on advanced measures that can be used more readily on various commercial levels. The ability to use such technology and hardware and make identifications in mere seconds will do away with the time factors identity thieves rely on to do their damage.
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