FBI Seeks Advanced Biometric Algorithms to Enhance Next Generation Identification System

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather industry insights on advanced biometric matching algorithms. This initiative, led by the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division, underscores the Bureau’s commitment to enhancing its Next Generation Identification (NGI) system, one of the largest repositories of biometric and criminal history data in the world. The NGI system, managed by the CJIS, is a comprehensive database that includes biometrics used for law enforcement across the United States, and has been a focal point for various technological advancements in the field of biometrics.

The RFI seeks algorithms capable of processing tenprint and latent fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris biometrics. The aim is to identify technologies that offer cutting-edge accuracy and performance. According to the FBI, “The results will inform strategic business decisions made by the FBI as it relates to the existing NGI System algorithms.”

Vendors are encouraged to submit their algorithms for evaluation through the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) biometric testing platforms. NIST’s evaluations are renowned for their rigor, as seen in recent successes by companies like Luxand, which highlighted its FaceSDK’s performance in challenging real-world scenarios.

The FBI emphasized that algorithms submitted must match the proficiency and accuracy demonstrated in the NIST evaluations. Interested vendors are required to submit their algorithms to NIST by January 31, 2025, and notify the FBI of their participation.

Vendors responding to the RFI must include an executive summary, limited to four pages, outlining company details, points of contact, and identifiers such as CAGE Code and DUNS number. Additionally, the notice must specify which algorithms were submitted for testing. Submissions will be sent via email to designated FBI contacts, Andy Stickley and Teala Watkins.

The RFI aligns with the FBI’s broader strategy to stay ahead of technological advancements in biometrics. By engaging the private sector, the agency aims to continuously refine its identification and investigative capabilities. It also reflects the FBI’s dual mandate of protecting public safety and ensuring civil liberties. Title 28 of the United States Code, Section 534, authorizes the FBI to collect and maintain biometric data for these purposes.

Future steps include additional RFIs that will refine the FBI’s understanding of the biometric technology market. These could include benchmarks for accuracy, performance requirements, and details on compatibility with existing systems. The FBI intends to explore market offerings comprehensively to ensure its systems remain at the forefront of biometric technology. This approach is consistent with the FBI’s recent efforts to explore technologies like open-source facial recognition, as outlined in a recent RFI seeking Clearview-type tech solutions.

Vendors interested in participating are encouraged to review the NIST biometric testing program and align their offerings with the FBI’s stated objectives. The NIST testing program can be accessed via its official website, offering further insights into testing protocols and criteria.

Source: SAM.gov

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December 5, 2024 – by Ji-seo Kim