Dallas County Turns to ‘Dadgum Biometrics’ to Fight Payroll Fraud

Dallas County will implement biometric time clocks to reduce payroll fraud and improve security. The new system, which uses fingerprint and facial recognition technology, was approved by county commissioners following concerns about high overtime costs that contributed to a budget crisis earlier in 2024.

The county has purchased 119 biometric time clocks, costing over half a million dollars, to be installed in departments such as the sheriff’s office and juvenile services.

The Kronos UKG InTouch DX devices will require employees to undergo biometric scans to log work hours and receive payment. The technology aims to curb fraudulent overtime reporting, with the system flagging potential abuse more easily. However, concerns have been raised regarding the testing and training needed before full implementation, especially after previous technology-related issues within the county.

“The toughest part is going to be the finger piece, and the fingerprinting,” County administrator Darryl Martin told KERA News. “So that’s going to be the part that’s going to need some time and some training.”

Despite this, county officials are hopeful the system will be operational by early 2025, ensuring more accurate and secure payroll processing.

Commissioner John Wiley Price emphasized that the incentive of getting paid will encourage employees to learn the system quickly.

“If you don’t use the correct finger, you won’t get paid,” he said. “It’s simple—just make it clear: ‘This is the finger you need to use if you want to get paid.'”

Price also expresses confidence that the technology behind the new clock-in system will help prevent fraud, saying “that dadgum biometrics — when you hit it, whether it’s overtime, whether it’s comp time, it’s going to ping it.”

Source: Kera News

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September 6, 2024 – by Tony Bitzionis