Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Iris Scanners- Hello 2010

Biometrics R&D firm Global Rainmakers Inc. (GRI) announced today that it is rolling out its iris scanning technology to create what it calls "the most secure city in the world."  GRI is partnering up with Leon, one of the largest cities in Mexico. GRI is going to fill the city with eye scanners.  So, whenever you walk into a business, use the ATM or try to board a plane, scanners will scan your eye and will reveal detailed information about you.  Law officials will start with the criminals first.  They will scan their iris and record all the data available on that person.  For example, if their is a warrant for someones arrest, if they attempt to walk into a business, use the ATM, or even try to board a plane, the scanners will alert the law enforcement of the location of the criminal.  It will become virtually impossible for someone with a warrant to board a plane. 
Eventually, the company plans on expanding to replace using debit cards, credit cards, and even scanning irises on the freeway.  So, when someone goes to the store or uses the ATM, their iris will be scanned instead of a card. The idea of all of bank information and credit card information being stored in huge data base sounds a little scary to me.
GRI's scanning systems are currently shipping to Leon.  GRI plans to begin Phase II of expanding to commercial enterprises in the next three years.
Scanning systems for law enforcement is actually not a bad idea.  Iris scanners would make it easier to catch known felons. Changing your identity won't be so easy for the known felon. However, I am sure with all new technology there are going to be bugs in the system and it may cause problems with mistaken identity with the average citizen.

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