Biometric Identity Disambiguation

Common first and last names and birthdays are shared by multiple people in the U.S., adding complexity when biometric identity processing occurs at security checkpoints. Biometric verification systems may struggle to confirm an individual’s identity with corresponding biometric data if multiple people are registered under the same name and date of birth. Additionally, data input errors, including misspelling of names, use of nicknames, or transposed numbers in birthdates, can cause similar complications. When this occurs, identity verification is delayed, extending the screening process time and causing significant bottlenecks for security personnel and travelers. 

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate and Transportation Security Administration addressed this issue with the Biometric Identity Disambiguation (BID) system. The BID system provides an efficient method for identifying individuals who share common names, birthdays, and other biographic information. The innovation also addresses issues with incorrect or incomplete information on identification documents, boarding passes, or tickets.

For a more detailed description download the PDF below.