NCJ Number
133858
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1991) Pages: 22-24
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Several companies have developed computerized fingerprinters that allow police to electronically scan and produce better quality fingerprints at the point of booking.
Abstract
The fingerprints can be simultaneously transmitted over telephone lines to a computer system for identification in a fraction of the time it takes using manual processing. Due to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's backlog of unprocessed fingerprint files, its stated goal is to mandate that only electronic fingerprinting will be acceptable, possibly by the end of 1994. Nonetheless, questions remain about the use of electronic fingerprints. For example, small communities may not be able to afford electronic equipment. Due to advances in technology and mass production of equipment, however, prices will probably be reduced to a point where most police departments can afford the necessary units. In addition to producing better prints in less time, computerized fingerprinting solves storage space problems. Retinal scanning and voice verification represent two other promising biometric security techniques. The uniqueness of a person's signature is also being considered for physical entry and access control.