NCJ Number
210479
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 32 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2005 Pages: 144-148
Date Published
June 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the use of biometrics to allow law enforcement officers to access sensitive data while in the field.
Abstract
While the Federal and State governments deal with the increasing threat of identity theft made possible by the Internet and other technological advances, law enforcement officers continue to require fast and remote access to sensitive information, such as criminal records. Providing access to officers while protecting the data from unauthorized users is a delicate balance. The author describes the Pegasus Project, headed by a former Federal Bureau of Investigation Associate Director, which is deployed by 220 sheriff’s offices around the country. Designed as a handheld device, the system uses a scalable and secure WEB authentication service that allows system access only through a positive fingerprint authentication. The device provides sheriffs with Web-based information access required for investigations. Another technology developed by BIO-key International, Inc. is the PocketCop which enables officers in the field to instantly run registration and license plate checks while also securely communicating with other officers. While identity theft threatens the security of our society, biometrics offers law enforcement tools to combat these types of threats. Exhibits