Fingerprinting @ your library?
The computer security blog Schneier on Security, has a news item about a plan to replace library cards with patron fingerprints. This story has been reported on in other sources, including LISNews and Slashdot.
Does this sound convenient, worrisome, or provoke some other feeling?
Does this sound convenient, worrisome, or provoke some other feeling?
posted by Daniel at 1:51 PM
2 Comments:
I would say its 'worrisome'. We have already removed the ink pads and card stock from the circ desk, in lieu of the receipt printer.
Think technology. Fingerprinting is ancient. What about a retinal scan, or some that 'biometric' analysis.
Everyday that passes the place where I work looks and feels like a TSA checkpoint.
-Pete
What's worrisome about biometric identification is when it's compromised. (i.e., when your identity is stolen, you can't set yourself up with a different i.d.)
So, if someone "steals" your fingerprint and starts using it everywhere -- lifting it from a glass, making a rubber mould -- you can't simply call up the DMV and have them issue you a new one.
Retinal Scans might be more foolproof now, but you can bet someone will figure out how to trick those, too.
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