Secure Identity Alliance Encourages Use of Biometric Screening Tech at International Borders

The Secure Identity Alliance (SIA) has released a new report that examines the current border security landscape. Dubbed Strong Identity, Strong Borders, the SIA report emphasizes the need for identity management solutions that can provide governments with a high level of security while still delivering a more streamlined travel experience for individual civilians.

In doing so, the SIA highlighted some of the technologies that will shape border security (and border policy) moving forward. The report makes a particular case for biometrics, with case studies that describe practical applications of facial recognition and other modalities. It also discusses some of the ways in which mobile technologies and automated e-gates can speed up passenger processing times. SIA is hoping that the report will help border agencies deal with rising passenger volumes as the travel industry recovers from COVID-19.

“While there is no universal framework for success in border control, there are certain processes and considerations that can help to ensure that any authority is as well prepared as possible,” said SIA Borders Working Group Chair Michael Brandau. “One of the things that we want to highlight is that while every country’s border control needs are unique, continued innovation means that there are an ever-increasing number of solutions to those challenges.”

“While it may be some time before we see a return to those pre-pandemic levels, demand will inevitably surge again,” added SIA Chairman Philippe Barreau. “When it does, border authorities will once again need to address the dual challenge of safeguarding their country whilst also ensuring that global travel remains as convenient and accessible as possible.”

The new report arrives only a few months after a similar report that looked at national digital identity programs. IDEMIA is a member of the SIA Board, and has released new TravelKiosks and Digital Travel Credentials that fulfill many of the objectives outlined in the SIA report.

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April 14, 2021 – by Eric Weiss