Anonymous

Glasgow

IT Consultant

The answers given here show an unbelievable level of complacency, and naive belief that the technology will be adequate. These systems require to be 100% accurate for statutory purposes. Just to say that "No systems are 100 per cent perfect and those that include biometrics are no exception" can only further weaken confidence. I have no "ailments" of my eyes yet the UK ID card test programme failed to be able to scan or recognise my irises. The "fall-back" option of facial measurement biometrics was, I was advised, mush less reliable as facial details are much more susceptible to change (even of spectacle frames!) The idea that any individual can demand that a border guard should just "clean his lens" is one that I would love to see tested by these "experts" at, say, JFK airport. These biometric cards and associated databases will lead to great new opportunities for identity theft - all the elements are digitised and ready to ship anywhere in the world in seconds. What happens with credit card numbers now will happen with ID cards, bank accounts, benefit entitlements, passports, insurance and pensions in the future. There is no doubt whatsoever that misuse of this technology will encourage new crimes and lead the surveillance society to impinge further on civil liberties.