FBI Broadens Identification Verification

Signal, Apr 2008

HOMELAND SECURITY

The Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI's) next-generation identification system will feature multimodal biometric data-gathering capabilities and double the size of the current fingerprint database capacity. The system expands on the bureau's current Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) and will feature palm print, iris and facial recognition identification capabilities.

The IAFIS repository's infrastructure will be enhanced to provide single identity management and to support the additional biometric modalities. In addition, a national palm print system will be created that features a centralized national repository for palm print data that can be used to identify latent palm prints left at crime scenes. The new system also will enhance the FBI's Interstate Photo System by expanding the photograph repository and providing photograph search capabilities.

Lockheed Martin Transportation and security Solutions (www.lockheedmartin.com/tss) is developing technologies and biometric standards to ensure interoperability with existing biometric systems. In addition, the FBI and the company will conduct trade studies to support the multibiometric framework as the new capabilities are phased in.