As we face 2016, identity management has become more critical to successful security operations. Recent acts of terrorism, border security issues, and the refugee crisis are just a few examples that remind us of the potential risks we face today. As a result, identity management is now firmly cemented into prospective security models across the public and private sectors.
In recent years, organisations and government bodies worldwide have begun to rely increasingly on biometric solutions to combat anti-social elements and activities. Identity management as part of security systems is evolving continuously and in such a scenario security companies need to cater to the growing demand for innovative security solutions.
Advanced identification technologies for high-throughput scenarios
People are increasingly worried about their personal safety and security. They want to feel safe where they work, send their children to school, shop, dine, and attend sporting and entertainment events. These concerns also raise real liability issues for businesses, schools, and municipalities. This widespread mindset is driving an increased demand for security solutions with advanced identification technologies that are highly accurate, fast, and can’t easily be breached.
Unfortunately, there are far too many cases where a face and an ID or access card simply aren’t enough to verify one’s identity. This is particularly true for critical applications such as immigration, border control, and travel clearance. High-throughput identity systems can be extremely beneficial in these scenarios — providing the ability to quickly and easily register and identify large numbers of people. In addition to addressing major border and immigration issues, these same technologies are useful on a smaller scale for corporate campuses and crowd screening against watch lists.
| Companies have loosened their budgets in 2015 to improve security with biometric technologies, such as iris recognition |
Addressing global security concerns
We’ve also seen first-hand the increasing awareness of the power of iris recognition and other biometric technologies to improve security and identity management. In 2015, many companies and organisations loosened their budgets and spending to address critical security needs, as evidenced by a number of projects coming to fruition. SRI’s systems were implemented in a wide variety of environments, including government facilities, mission-critical data centres, and a Major League Baseball stadium.
Identity management will continue to play a significant role in security on both a large and small scale. In light of technological advances and global security concerns, there are greater opportunities for security companies today, a trend that will continue into 2016 and beyond. Those organisations – both end users and security providers – that recognise and adapt to the evolving security and identity management landscape will be winners.
See the full coverage of 2015/2016 Review and Forecast articles here