Statutes typically define identifiers to include retina or iris scans, fingerprints, voiceprints, and hand or face geometry. Photographs and information derived from them are excluded under some definitions and included under others.
The exclusion scope is heavily litigated.
Alternative Names:
Biometric Data|Biometric Information
Why it Matters?
Whether facial geometry derived from photographs falls within the definition determines exposure for any organization processing images, and the Illinois statute's exclusion of photographs alongside its inclusion of face geometry has produced conflicting outcomes. Voiceprint claims against call center analytics have followed the same pattern. Establishing that a system stores a template rather than performing transient matching is a productive technical defense.
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Frequently asked questions
Are photographs covered?
What technical defense is available?
