Additional Considerations

Abstract

This chapter is of particular interest as it leaves behind the strictly technical aspects of biometric identity verification and draws attention to what many will perceive as more important factors around the use of this technology. It introduces a much needed societal context to what has hitherto been a discussion lead predominantly by the interests of technology providers and government agencies. This broadening of understanding is vitally important with respect to the deployment of such technologies, especially if one takes a longer-term view. It examines the implications of ill-conceived applications and exposes some of the incorrect assumptions that continue to circulate in relation to this technology. It goes on to stress the importance of keeping things simple and maintaining a clarity of purpose in all that we do. It is a chapter that should be read, digested and then read again in order to fully understand why these points have been raised and why they are so important to understand.