What is ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013?

ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013, also known as Information Technology - Security Techniques - Privacy Guidelines for Biometrics, is an international standard that provides guidelines and recommendations for the proper use of biometric data while safeguarding individuals' privacy. This technical article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013, its significance, and its impact on the field of biometrics.

The Scope and Objectives

ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013 focuses on various biometric modalities such as fingerprints, iris patterns, face recognition, and voice identification. It lays down the essential requirements for organizations involved in collecting, storing, processing, transmitting, and verifying biometric information.

The primary objective of this standard is to ensure the protection of individuals' privacy and to promote ethical practices in the use of biometric data. It outlines best practices regarding transparency, informed consent, data retention, and accuracy of biometric systems.

Privacy Principles and Recommendations

ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013 incorporates several privacy principles that organizations should adhere to when handling biometric data. These principles include purpose specification, collection limitation, data minimization, storage limitation, and accountability.

For instance, the principle of purpose specification emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the intended purpose for collecting biometric data. Organizations should inform individuals about how their data will be used and ensure that it is only used for the specified purposes.

The standard also provides recommendations for organizations to maintain the security and integrity of biometric data. It emphasizes the need for implementing appropriate access controls, encryption techniques, and secure storage mechanisms. Regular monitoring, auditing, and assessment of systems are also recommended to ensure compliance with the standard.

Impact on Biometric Industry

ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013 has had a significant impact on the biometric industry. By setting clear guidelines for privacy protection, it has increased public trust in the use of biometrics. Organizations that comply with this standard demonstrate a commitment to protecting individuals' privacy rights.

Furthermore, ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013 promotes interoperability among different biometric systems and encourages the development of compatible technologies. This enables seamless integration and communication between various biometric devices and databases, enhancing their overall effectiveness and reliability.

In conclusion, ISO-IEC TR 30385:2013 plays a vital role in establishing privacy guidelines for biometric data usage. It enhances trust, ensures ethical practices, and fosters innovation in the field of biometrics. Adhering to this standard is essential for organizations involved in biometric data handling as they strive to provide secure and privacy-respecting solutions.