Guideline on Responsible Use of Biometrics Data in Security Apps

Here is the guide incorporating all the best practices, key considerations, and security measures for managing biometric data responsibly and securely:

Comprehensive Guide to Biometric Data Protection

To manage biometric data responsibly, organizations need a structured approach across the data lifecycle, addressing unique risks, ensuring security, and upholding individuals' privacy. This guide presents best practices and key considerations to follow at every stage of collecting, using, and protecting biometric data.

Addressing Risks Unique to Biometric Recognition Technology

1. Identity Spoofing:

- Implement anti-spoofing measures like liveness detection.

- Place access points near security-monitored areas for added protection.

2. Error in Identification:

- Set matching thresholds carefully to minimize false positives/negatives.

- Use additional authentication factors as needed.

3. Systemic Risks to Biometric Templates:

- Encrypt biometric templates with unique algorithms to prevent cross-system misuse.

Key Considerations for Collecting Biometric Data

1. Purpose and Necessity:

- Define the purpose of collecting biometric data and confirm its necessity.

- Explore alternative methods where possible to achieve the same goals.

2. Consent and Notification:

- Obtain explicit consent, except where legally exempt.

- Provide clear notification regarding the purpose and use of biometric data.

3. Security Measures:

- Protect data from tampering and unauthorized access with robust security.

- Use encryption for data-at-rest and data-in-transit.

4. Data Minimization:

- Process biometric samples into templates promptly, storing only the templates and discarding original samples.

5. Placement and Operation:

- Ensure security cameras are positioned to avoid capturing private areas.

- Use visible indicators or notices to inform individuals about biometric data collection.

6. Compliance with Legal Obligations:

- Adhere to all applicable laws, such as the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).

- Perform legitimate interests assessments when relying on exceptions to consent.

7. Data Protection and Governance:

- Establish internal governance to oversee biometric data usage and conduct regular audits.

8. Vendor Management:

- Ensure third-party vendors adhere to data protection through contracts and audits.

- Train staff and vendors on appropriate handling and access to biometric data.

Security Measures for Protecting Biometric Data

1. Encryption:

- Encrypt biometric data both at rest and in transit.

- Use strong algorithms with added salt to enhance security.

2. Access Control:

- Limit access to biometric data and enforce two-factor authentication.

- Avoid password sharing and assign unique credentials to each user.

3. Data Minimization:

- Reduce stored data by quickly converting biometric samples into templates.

- Retain only necessary templates, discarding other personal data.

4. Segregation of Data:

- Separate biometric data storage from other datasets.

- Use arbitrary unique identifiers instead of names to reference templates.

5. Physical Security:

- Restrict physical access to storage facilities and secure devices storing biometric data.

6. System Integrity:

- Protect systems from tampering and ensure data integrity is upheld.

7. Regular Audits and Monitoring:

- Conduct audits and monitor access logs regularly to detect unauthorized activity.

8. Vendor Management:

- Enforce compliance by vendors with data protection through contracts and regular reviews.

9. Disposal of Biometric Data:

- Permanently delete data when no longer required and use secure destruction methods.

10. Training and Awareness:

- Train staff and vendors on security protocols and responsibilities in handling biometric data.

Governing and Protecting Biometric Data Across Its Lifecycle

1. Data Collection:

- Obtain consent (where required) and secure systems against unauthorized access.

2. Processing/Use:

- Limit access to biometric samples, processing them swiftly into templates.

3. Storage:

- Manage access strictly and discard samples post-processing.

- Encrypt templates and enforce key management and access control.

4. Disposal:

- Delete biometric data when no longer needed and securely destroy it during system decommissioning.

Access, Correction, Accountability, and Internal Governance

- Access and Correction: Allow individuals to access biometric samples (not templates) and submit correction requests.

- Accountability: Establish a Data Protection Management Programme, involving decision-makers in system design.

- Governance: Review public expectations regularly and manage vendors to ensure data protection compliance.

By adhering to all of above practices, organizations can secure and responsibly handle biometric data, fulfilling legal obligations while safeguarding individual privacy.

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