The majority of companies are considering the introduction of biometric technology to increase workplace security, according to a new independent survey commissioned as part of the Hitachi Data Systems Storage Index. The survey finds that 55% of firms say they are currently considering the introduction of Iris-scanning and fingerprint recognition systems. This comes amid growing adoption of biometric technology by border control and public sector organisations. The survey reveals that more than 68% of companies believe that the use of biometrics in office buildings is a justified security measure, while just 39% anticipate staff or customer resistance to the technology. Likewise, relatively 37% respondents thought that ‘Big Brother’ style abuse of biometric information was likely – either by companies or government agencies.

“It seems that attitudes towards biometrics are rapidly improving as the technology becomes more common and people recognise the growing security benefits,” says John Bentley, Sales Director, Hitachi Data Systems ME. “Of course, companies will still need to comply with various privacy and data protection regulations that govern how long personal information can be stored and what it can be used for – which presents a further IT challenge for many.”

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From:
Aftermath News
Top Stories - October 8th, 2004