The US economy has been one of the strongest and most consistent economies in the world since many decades. Thus, people across the world are attracted to this country for job opportunities along with their aspiration for a high standard of living. Also, it is one of the top tourist destinations across the globe, which is why travelers flock here every peak season.

To manage the tourists as well as immigrants, the United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) is in place. This technology uses the biometric devices encompassing dual fingerprint scanners like Crossmatch verifier 310 and Crossmatch Verifier 320 to keep a record of every single individual who enters the country.

Currently, they use biometric fingerprint readers and photographs to determine whether travelers and immigrants can legally enter and stay in the country. The information thus gathered, is then provided to the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Transportation Security Administration.

To further enhance security, they are now applying other biometric devices like the iris recognition scanners, face recognition scanners, etc. This upgrade has been carried out so that multiple layers and a combination of safety measures will help reduce crimes and terrorism that have been plaguing the country. Additionally, it will also help reduce the number of illegal immigrants.

The information received from biometric fingerprint readers like Crossmatch Verifier 310 LC, Crossmatch Verifier 320 LC as well as other devices is verified by the federal government. This data is also checked against a list of criminals, terrorists, felons and other people who violate the law. By processing more than thirty thousand entries in a day, these biometric processes are expected to help make the country one of the safest commercial and tourist destinations in the world.

Biometric identification is already in use at most places in the United States, thanks to its accurate and easy way of keeping records and enhancing security. Getting into the same boat, UK has now taken up various devices similar to Secugen Hamster IV and Secugen Hamster Plus fingerprint scanner for its important locations.

One of the events, where fingerprint readers and other biometric devices are used is the upcoming Olympic Games in the country. The Olympic Games is an event that has participants coming from more than 200 nations. Its origin dates back a few centuries in Greece, and it has now reached an international level. Here, exceptional athletes come and showcase their talents. It is held every two years in summer and winter seasons, and this year more number of countries are expected to join in. An occasion so grand and prestigious undoubtedly requires a global level of security, which is almost foolproof.

Layers of authentication like personal checking of documents, security guards, etc. are employed for this event. UK has gone one step ahead and used biometric devices that are similar to Secugen Hamster IV and Secugen Hamster Plus fingerprint scanners, available in the US. These scanners keep a record of over ten thousand athletes that have come over from different countries. Besides classifying prints of sports people, the fingerprint readers can help store data of family members, guests, coach and the media staff.

UK has chosen fingerprint scanning and other systems, as they are an almost foolproof way of keeping the talented sportsmen and women safe. Additionally, they are a major deterrent against terrorist activities that have threatened the country in the past. Biometric identification and checking also avert illegal immigration and eases access for athletes from the airport itself.

Reports about patients being given wrong treatment due to mistaken identity or mix-ups in medical data are not uncommon. Such events may have crippling effects and may even result in fatalities. Besides, the medical institution and the doctor would lose the goodwill they have built over the years. Thus, accurate maintenance of records in the healthcare industry is vital. And biometric identification is here to help with this cause.

These biometric identification systems are based on particular physical characteristics of human beings, which are very unlikely to change over time. For example, the Secugen Hamster Plus fingerprint scanner takes into accounts the grooves and ridges of fingertips, which not only stay the same throughout one’s life, but are also specific to an individual. These fingerprint readers help identify you in case of both emergencies as well as regular checkups. Your identification would include everything from basic information regarding your name, height and weight to allergies andprevious surgeries. Plus, they consolidate all your medical information on a single database.

Another key advantage of biometric identification is the maintenance of privacy. Only once you lay your finger on the Secugen Hamster Plus fingerprint scanner can anyone access your medical information. Unlike information stored in bulky binders or computerized files, this system helps make you feel secure and confident that your private medical history is limited only to you and your doctor.

The entry of fingerprint readers in the healthcare industry is slow. Medical professionals are taking time to adapt to this new system. But, testimonials by early adopters have proved their accuracy and convenience.

In a Hollywood action movie, you are likely to see the protagonist crack the toughest of security codes, including biometric access control systems. While these culminate into a great recipe for a thrilling movie, real-world biometric identification systems are nearly impossible to fool. In fact, these are considered to be the most infallible security measures in recent times.

Most popular among these are fingerprint reader software and iris scanners. Just like fingerprints are unique to each individual, so is the trabecular meshwork of the iris of the eye of each and every individual. To begin an iris scan, an individual’s face is placed in a way that the eye is between three and ten centimeters from the iris scanner. A CCD digital camera within the device captures an image of the eye, which includes the center of the pupil, the edge of the pupil and the iris, along with the eyelids and lashes. Then, in the way the fingerprint reading software matches patterns to the centralized database; the software of the device analyzes the complex patterns of the iris using mathematical algorithms to match the current imagewith stored records.

Unlike fingerprint reader software, which uses 60 to 70 points of measurement; iris scanners uses 200 point of measurements. This makes them one of the most accurate systems of biometric identification.

Iris scanners are commonly found in immigration channels and high-security vaults. Yet, installing them for enhanced security seems to enjoy an upward trend amongst high-profile organizations today. Since the future seems to be that of non-contact scanning security, iris readers may well play a central role in it.

Did you know that biometric technology has been around since 29,000 B.C.? At the time, it was in the form of handprints that cavemen used to sign their artwork. In 500 B.C., business transactions in Babylonia were signed with fingerprints on clay tablets.

Yet, surprisingly, the technology isn’t as widespread as you would expect it to be. Several factors have contributed over the years toward the slow adoption of biometric technology. Primary among them is the cost associated with the procurement, installation and implementation of biometric systems. The Unisys Security Index surveys indicate that adding users to the system, which is a pre-requisite for any kind of authentication, is challenging in the case of biometric computer security, depending on the trust value of the organization using the system.

Despite these issues, banking, research, government and military organizations have adopted biometric logins as their primary authentication technology. Of late, the price points of technology required for fast and accurate biometric authentication have dropped significantly, making it viable for small- and medium-sized private enterprises to deploy biometric login or authentication systems as well.

Over the years, biometric systems have evolved from a new technology used in closed environment applications to a useful, practical, fit-for-purpose tool used across a wide range of industries and in a variety of applications. The Global Biometric Forecast to 2012 anticipates that its markets will grow at a CAGR of about 22% between 2011 and 2013. North America is touted to be the most dominant player, closely followed by the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Governments are the largest customers of biometric computer security and are expected to remain so.

Thus, we see that the biometrics market has been growing at a steady pace in recent times. The growth is being supplemented by hardware and software developments in the field that help increase its reach and scope from organizations to individuals. Smartphone apps with biometric authentication are now rearing their head. If the current market growth and pace of development sustain then we are certain to witness the fulfilment of the Global Biometric Forecast in the not-so-distant future.

The bank, in Nairobi, which caters to over 4 million accountholders and spans a massive chain of 115 branches, secured CompuLynx’s assistance in developing a biometric identification system to enhance security and minimize fraud and theft.

In a country where national IDs are non-existent, a secure integration of biometric devices in the banking system was necessary to deal with security issues that plague the bank and its users.

The problem of authentication, recognition and registration is a major hassle in banks worldwide. While most of the banks have already implemented biometric solutions to safeguard their clients’ interests, Kenya’s underdevelopment has disallowed it to keep pace with the current security developments.

CompuLynx has installed SecuGen Hamster IV biometric identification devices that will identify bank accountholders accurately using a Central Biometric Database that will create and store one biometric profile per person in order to enable first-time registration for users.

SecuGen Hamster IV was chosen due to its high image quality, affordability and rugged construction. Due to its configuration, this is one of the biometric devices that comes with an ultra high-speed capability, thereby allowing it to process up to 50,000 fingerprints to check for duplication. It also enhances connectivity across the several branches of the bank, as they are all connected with the database so as to enable efficient cross-referencing by the biometric identification system.

Biometric identification has greatly influenced how companies now perceive and tackle security concerns. There has been a significant reduction in cases of identity theft and fraudulence since Biometric Devices streamline the entire process for the bank’s retail customers. SecuGen Hamster IV is also used in various other places such as financial, medical, educational, governmental and corporate institutions.

E-governance works entirely on a technology driven model and helps all kinds organisations achieve their tasks of governance, communication, transactions, back office interactions, office processes etc. Secugen Hamster IV fingerprint scanner is a device that has its applicability in a variety of applications and organisations. Biometric devices make the task of identification of individuals feasible in an organized manner.

Secugen Hamster IV is used for various uses, which includes Fingerprint Based Computer Login, Biometric Point of Sale Machines, Web-Based Fingerprint Recognition Systems, Fingerprint Time and Attendance, Fingerprint Access Control. Not just this, Secugen Hamster IV is also used for biometric identification in Slum Survey & Slum Re-development Projects, Domain Controller, Driver’s License, Biometric File Encryption, PC/workstation security, Network/enterprise security, Internet content security, E-commerce, B2B transactions, Electronic transactions, Bank and financial systems, Medical information systems and any password-based application.

The list of feature that come packed with Secugen Hamster IV include free Fingerprint SDK available on request, FBI Certified “PIV Single Finger Capture Device”, High-quality, rugged, maintenance-free optical fingerprint sensor with ultra-high 1200+ DPI native resolution (500 DPI effective resolution), USB connection, Demo application availability to capture fingerprint as an image file, Auto-On automatically turns on sensor when it detects a finger, Hardened fingerprint contact area that’s resistant to scratches, impact, corrosion and electrostatic discharge (ESD), Compact and ergonomically design to work with any finger or thumb. The biometric device supports: Fingerprint recognition, fingerprint verification, fingerprint authentication, fingerprint scanning and fingerprint matching applications, Integrated finger guide, Removable, weighted stand.

Secugen Hamster IV is already used in various eGovernance projects, including banking, micro finance, Inspector General Revenue -computerization, Land registration etc. The device efficiently captures the fingerprint impression of the buyer of land or property. The captured impression of the fingerprint is stored and can be printed for use in the future. Secugen Hamster IV acts as a reliable source to get finger prints and is increasingly used in various parts of the country. There are three types of Secugen Hamster IV biometric identification which are: optical, electrical and communication. Millions of thumb prints can be saved using the Secugen Hamster IV and can be of great help to various organisations, whether private or government.

Biometric devices have become an accepted norm today, owing to their reliability and security facets. Biometric security systems are used to keep a check on corporate data breaches and incidences of identity fraud at financial bodies. The most important aspect of biometric devices is the convenience factor. People have to simply use their body parts for validation of their identity, without the need to carry IC cards. These devices are gaining momentum in the technological sphere where faster and more reliable systems are being produced by the day. Absolute precision is guaranteed for an individual which is a necessary element in bigger projects conducted by larger corporations and governments. Far more easier to operate and install than standard security systems, these biometric devices eliminate the use of PIN numbers, signatures and photo IDs, iris scans, voiceprints, facial recognition and aptly counter any loopholes.

Two of the most popular biometric security systems work on the model of either fingerprint recognition or palm vein technology. The first type of biometric security device uses the fingerprint recognition technique where a highly sensitive camera captures the thumb prints of the individuals. The person has to place his thumb over the scanner, which then captures the fingerprint and matches it with existing records. The biometric device is mostly used for fingerprint recognition, fingerprint verification, fingerprint authentication, fingerprint scanning and fingerprint matching applications. The device is so designed that it is able to capture dry, wet and blurred images as well.

The other kind of biometric security device with palm vein technology uses an infrared sensor that indentifies an individual’s vein pattern. This method works on a very sensitive model of authentication technique. This type of biometric security system does not require being touched; the user has to place the hand over a few inches on the scanner. Palm veins are unique to every individual and with the help of infrared sensor; the scanner captures this never-changing pattern. The biometric device is also an option because of its hygiene mode. In traditional biometric security systems, the device was required to be touched, making way for sanitary issues that are now dealt with.

Both these fingerprint access control devices incorporate those features of the humans that do not change or are not prone to any manipulation. Factors like age, wounds, cuts, change in skin colour do not make up for any difference unlike the earlier counterparts of these biometric devices.

In the 21st century, biometric devices have become an integral part of improved security and information management. With reduced risk and enhanced efficiency provided by this technology more and more businesses as well as social environments are opting for biometric devices such as the fingerprint door locks.

With a wide range of attractive biometric locks finding one that suits your requirements is not an easy job. Today one can find a Fingerprint door lock in different styles and options which include door knobs, latches, handle locks and dead bolt style locks. Following are the factors that one must bear in mind in while deciding on the right fingerprint door lock. A carefully selected fingerprint lock will help you avoid unforeseen accidents in the future.

Factor #1 – Level of security

A biometric door lock should give you a high level of security that cannot be tampered or overridden. You should select a lock according to the area in which it has to be used. For instance for the front door, garage door or patio door, an IP65 outdoor fingerprint device with an very accurate fingerprint matching algorithm should be used.

Factor #2 – Matching the décor

When choosing a fingerprint door lock make sure, the finish of the lock is in accordance with that of your door or overall décor. You can get such door locks in finishes ranging from bright bass, aged bronze, satin nickel, bright chrome, to even antique brass.

Factor #3 – Ease of installation and use

Any high quality fingerprint lock should not take more than 30 minutes for its installation. Functions like to add, delete passwords should be an effortless process as users generally do not remember a lot of codes or passwords.

Moreover, any typical fingerprint lock should allow access to the required number of users which may vary from 5 to 5000. Ensure that the biometric lock you are using has an alternative method of entry or remote access to avoid being stuck outside your house or office building.

Factor #4 – Affordability

Despite of the fact that this technology is commonly used in many businesses and households, the price still remains an important consideration for many. However, numerous brands and manufacturers of fingerprint locks have made them available in an affordable price range.

With all this information, you can purchase a door lock produced using the biometric technology, to suit perfectly your needs and budget.

Biometric security is an eco-friendly type of security technology, which is getting a hold in almost every field. A hospital uses a biometric fingerprint reader for patient identification and medication, a bank uses it to allow authorized customers, a gym uses it to allow access to clients with active membership. Access control systems are also being installed in workplaces, schools, and even in shops.

This extensive use of biometric systems can be useful in a number of ways. People will not be required to carry ID cards or membership cards, people will not be required to keep their medical reports with them before being admitted to a hospital. A huge amount of plastic, paper, ink and energy is consumed in producing a mass amount of ID cards and reports. Using biometric systems not only guarantees a higher level of security but also reduces resource consumption.

A fingerprint reader in hospitals eliminates the need to check the paper credentials of a patient. Every patient when registering for a hospital can give his fingerprint scan along with personal information. For successive visits, this information can be accessed by comparing a new fingerprint scan of the patient with pre-scanned images. Another use of a biometric fingerprint reader can be in gyms and fitness centres. For registration, every member uses his fingerprint to avail membership. This eliminates the cumbersome process of checking in every member individually through membership cards. access control system like biometric security can also make banking easier, if plastic credit cards become obsolete.

In today’s world when the responsibility of the welfare of the world is on everybody’s shoulders, controlled use of natural resources can be a big step towards the green initiative. Biometrics has provided a means to pursue this initiative by the innovation of a fingerprint reader.