Likewise, a high-resolution photograph can fool an iris scanner. Many of these problems can be corrected with advanced biometric identification and similar technology. Requiring multiple identifiers, like a fingerprint and a retinal scan, or implementing a thermal-imaging sensor to detect heat would certainly increase the level of security. Furthermore, high-end systems measure for hemoglobin or electrical conductivity in the scanned image. The problem with establishing higher security measures is that cost is greatly increased.
Privacy is at the forefront of the biometric security debate.
Proposed legislation in California would regulate the use of biometric devices and data and make trafficking in biometric information a crime. Such measures would require biometric information gatherers to gain the consent of each individual before their biometric data could be taken or shared with a third party. Biometric information databases must be secure from outside hacking if this technology is ever to be implemented on a broad scale. Other concerns are the inevitable computer glitches and inept business employees that might accidentally release stored biometric data from secured areas. Biometric identification systems often only create a mathematical algorithm of the scanned image.