What is biometric identification?

Biometric identification is an automated method of recognizing a person based on a unique physical or behavioral characteristic. Examples include fingerprints, facial features, hand geometry, handwriting, iris patterns, vein patterns, and voice recognition.

Why choose finger scanning for identification?

Finger scanning is one of the fastest, most accurate, cost-effective, and secure methods of identification. It eliminates the need for ID cards, PINs, or manual verification, helping schools improve efficiency and accountability.

Can my fingerprint be given to anyone else?

No. identiMetrics does not store fingerprint images. Instead, the system creates an encrypted numerical template based on unique points from the finger scan. The actual fingerprint image is never stored.

Can my fingerprint data be used to recreate my fingerprint?

No. The encrypted template generated by identiMetrics contains only mathematical representations of unique points. It is impossible to reconstruct or recreate an actual fingerprint from this information.

Can my fingerprint data be used on another fingerprint system?

No. identiMetrics uses proprietary technology and algorithms. The encrypted templates created by identiMetrics cannot be used by other biometric systems.

Can someone copy or misuse my fingerprint information?

No. Because fingerprint images are never stored and templates are encrypted, the information cannot be copied, duplicated, or used to create a fake fingerprint.

Do identical twins have the same fingerprints?

No. While identical twins share the same DNA, their fingerprints are unique.

Do finger scanners spread germs?

Research conducted by Purdue University’s Biometric Standards, Performance and Assurance Laboratory found that biometric sensors are no dirtier than commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs. As with any frequently touched surface, routine cleaning is recommended.

Can someone access the identiMetrics database and retrieve fingerprint information?

No. Fingerprint images are not stored in the database. During enrollment, the fingerprint image is used only to create an encrypted mathematical template and is then discarded. The stored template cannot be reverse-engineered to recreate a fingerprint image.

Why use biometrics in schools?

Schools perform thousands of identity transactions every day—from serving meals and recording attendance to checking out library books and managing events.

Traditional identification methods have limitations:

• ID cards can be lost, forgotten, damaged, or shared.
• PIN numbers can be forgotten, stolen, or exchanged.
• Visual identification can be inaccurate and time-consuming.

Biometric identification provides a fast, secure, and reliable alternative that improves operational efficiency, accountability, and reporting accuracy while reducing administrative burdens.

What about privacy concerns?

Student privacy is a top priority for both schools and education technology providers.

identiMetrics was an early signer of the Student Privacy Pledge, developed by the Future of Privacy Forum and the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA). The pledge demonstrates a commitment to responsible data practices and the protection of student information.

Additionally:

• No fingerprint images are stored.
• Biometric templates are encrypted.
• Data remains under the control of the school or district.
• Student information is not sold or shared with third parties.
• Biometric data is used solely for identification within authorized school applications.