|
|
|
Bush Administration Pushes Biometrics for National Security The Bush administration released a new presidential directive last week that will require federal agencies to share biometric information on those people deemed to pose a threat to national security. In an article on the Federal Computer Week website, Ben Bain says the directive will require the increased compatibility of methods agencies use to collect, store and share fingerprints, face and iris recognition data and behavioral characteristics to identify and screen “known and suspected terrorists.” “The National Security Presidential Directive 59/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 24’s purpose is to create a ‘framework’ to ensure that agencies are using mutually compatible and legal methods for sharing biometric information,” Bain says. “The directive also explained that although existing name-based screening approaches are beneficial, biometric technologies can improve agencies’ ability to identify and screen people believed to threaten national security.” But the directive will mean the agencies will have to make that information available for sharing with other agencies, including biometric and associated biographical information, at least to the extent it is legally permitted. Under the directive, the State, Defense, Homeland Security and Justice departments, as well as the Office for the Director of National Intelligence, must use common information technology and data standards, protocols and interfaces to enhance interoperability. To read the full article, click here:
|
