MANU-MAXIMUS-02
Maximus Reference Manual
A-3
Revision-02
Appendix A: Biometrics
Why Use Biometrics?
Why Use Biometrics?
Biometric identification provides several advantages over traditional methods that require ID
cards/tokens or Password/PIN numbers. Some of the advantages biometric devices provide are:
•
Eliminates buddy punching - the person must be physically present at the point-
of-identification.
•
Provides the ability to eliminate badges/tokens/PINs - identification based on
biometric techniques alleviates the need for users to remember a password or
carry a token.
•
Improves security - protects sensitive and personal data by replacing PINs,
eliminates credentials that can be stolen, and prevents unauthorized access to
systems or facilities.
User Confidentiality
ATS offers fingerscan biometric devices. Fingerscans are not fingerprints. Many people refer to
fingerscans as “fingerprints,” but the data of a fingerscan template is not suitable for law
enforcement fingerprint matching. In addition, the reader does not create or save the type of
image file required by the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS). The
IAFIS is the national fingerprint and criminal history system maintained by the Federal Bureau
of Investigation (FBI), Criminal Justice Information Services division (CJIS).
The ATS fingerscan products produce a template that represents points along the unique
features and minutia found in a fingerprint pattern. The template files cannot be reverse-
engineered to reproduce a fingerprint because the reader does not save the necessary
information.
Reliability Rules
Successful biometric installation and use typically requires:
•
Management Support (commitment to a maintenance schedule, etc)
•
Training of Supervisors and Employees
•
Satisfactory Environmental Conditions
Even if all these requirements are met it’s important to note:
•
Not all users can be enrolled (for various physiological reasons).
•
Biometric devices are susceptible to vandalism.
•
Environmental conditions can affect operation (e.g., moisture, dust, cold).
ATS uses these fingerscan technologies for their proven reliability given a few simple rules:
1.
All terminals within a facility are installed correctly (installation height observed,
obstructions avoided).
