UK can take global lead on biometrics

Biometrics are becoming more popular with the public

The UK could take a global lead in the biometrics industry, but is currently too fragmented in its approach and lacks an independent focal point, according to new research from the University of Kent and the UK Biometrics Institute (UKBI).

The report, commissioned by the government-backed Cyber Security Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN), argued that UK small and medium sized firms are carrying out innovative work in the area, and that consumers are willing to accept biometrics despite some privacy concerns.

However, it found that SMEs are struggling to sell their ideas into the mass market, suppliers could do more to answer public concerns, and the government is not doing enough to stimulate the sector.

"We need to ensure that information is flowing effectively between these parties," argued Simon Fance, project officer for the UKBI. "There is also a need for a single, informed and independent voice [which] government, the public and industry can turn to."

Fance argued that the opportunity for the UK to lead the world in producing biometric technologies is great but it risks being held back if these issues are not addressed.

"The global market is really taking off – it's going to happen, but are we going to direct it or are we going to be recipients?" he said.