Cyber Defense eMagazine January Edition for 2022

transparency issues that often surround facial recognition use. Biometrics in the form of facial recognition
can have huge benefits, when implemented properly. What does this mean?
Organizations should ensure that all procedures are clear, consent-based, have easy opt-in and opt-out
options, and are transparent about what information is being used or collected. This enables users to
“own their identities” and helps them feel secure in how their data is being collected and/or used.
Additionally, organizations should only deploy the biometric technologies that are sufficient and accurate
for the given use case. Furthermore, it’s important that humans review a biometric system’s results when
making important decisions.
Additionally, organizations should work to ensure biometric data storage solutions are secure,
anonymized and encrypted. Also, they should facilitate internal and external oversight of biometric
technology deployments and require system operators to complete training on proper use. Along with
these efforts, organizations should consistently conduct operational performance assessments when
deploying these technologies – and keep doing it even after the initial launch. Lastly, it’s important to
upgrade biometric systems to ensure the most accurate, secure and privacy-protective technologies are
being used.
With biometric solutions, everyone benefits; companies can offer greater security and minimize risks, and
customers and employees enjoy a faster, frictionless experience while still owning their digital identity.
There’s no doubt that biometrics is the present and future of authentication, but it needs to be done in a
manner that is consistent with privacy. By following best security practices and ensuring there is always
a human element in place to mitigate potential failures, organizations can ensure that they themselves,
their customers and employees all reap the benefits from these solutions
About the Author
Robert A. Eckel has been Chief Executive Officer and President
of Aware (NASDAQ: AWRE) since September 2019. Mr. Eckel
also serves on the board of directors for the International
Biometrics + Identity Association (IBIA), and as a strategic
advisory board member of Evolv Technology. Over his
distinguished career, he has held many positions of note within
the biometric and identity space, including: Regional President
and Chief Executive Officer of IDEMIA’s NORAM Identity &
Security division from 2017 to 2018; President and Chief Executive Officer of MorphoTrust USA, LLC
from 2011 to 2017; Executive Vice President and President of the Secure Credentialing Division of L-1
Identity Solutions Company from 2008-2011; and President of the Identity Systems division of Digimarc
Corporation from 2005 to 2008. Mr. Eckel has received his master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from
the University of California Los Angeles, and his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the
University of Connecticut
Robert A. Eckel can be reached online at bobeckel@aware.com and at our company website
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