Biometrics Institute turns 18 and launches Good Practice Framework

The Biometrics Institute is celebrating the 18th anniversary of its establishment by launching a new framework for organizations to use in the strategic planning, procurement and operation of a biometric system or network. With more than a thousand members representing 240 member organizations from 30 countries, the Biometrics Institute is a key figure in promoting the responsible and ethical use of biometrics.

“The Biometrics Institute is now the equivalent of a mature adult with rights and responsibilities. We’ve been pretty serious about the responsible use of biometrics while we’ve been growing up, so now we’re 18 there’ll be no stopping us,” says Biometrics Institute Chief Executive Isabelle Moeller, who joined the organization as manager in 2002. “At the last session of our Congress, we’ll be launching a new good practice tool to our members and asking for their feedback. The aim of the framework is to create a common understanding of biometric systems, the associated terminology and concepts. It will act as a guide through the process of establishing a biometric system, flagging potential vulnerabilities and considering R&D, emerging technologies and governance options. Our role now is to identify the gaps in good practice guidance and work with our members to address them.”

The new Biometrics Institute Good Practice Framework is intended to outline the stages of standing up a system, and provide guidance on the factors that influence biometric applications, the organization says. The upcoming Biometrics Institute Congress, October 29 and 30 in London, will by the 426th event it has hosted, and on the second day the Good Practice Framework will be presented to members. UK Biometrics Commissioner Paul Wiles, Mastercard Senior Vice President Bob Schukai, U.S. Office of Biometrics Identity Management for the Department of Homeland Security John Boyd, and Microsoft Vice President John Frank will also speak at the Congress.

The Biometrics Institute was founded in Australia on October 11, 2001, with initial members including the Australian Taxation Office, Department of Home Affairs, Federal Police and Department of Foreign Affairs. It now has many government agencies from around the world among its member organizations

“I hoped to create an organisation that brought everyone with an interest together to help drive the development of biometric technology, easier and more secure identification, as well as to foster innovation,” comments Ted Dunstone, who founded the Biometrics Institute and now heads its Security and Integrity Expert Group. “The success of the institute speaks for itself – it is more global and connected than I ever dreamed it might be when we held our first small meeting in Sydney. The potential of biometrics will not be realised unless the public can trust those using the technology. We are now at a critical turning point where the institute’s voice is vital to the discussion around responsible use.”

Article Topics

best practices  |  biometrics  |  Biometrics Institute  |  ethics