Biometrics | Homeland Security
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Biometrics

Biometrics is the automated recognition of individuals based on their biological and behavioral characteristics from which distinguishing, repeatable biometric features can be extracted for the purpose of biometric recognition. These characteristics, often called modalities, include—but are not limited to—fingerprints, iris patterns, or facial features that can be used for automated recognition. At the Department of Homeland Security, biometrics are used for detecting and preventing illegal entry into the United States, granting and administering proper immigration benefits, vetting and credentialing, facilitating legitimate travel and trade, enforcing federal laws, and enabling verification for visa applications to the United States

DHS provides biometric and identity capabilities to protect the Nation through its Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM), which supplies the technology for storing, comparing, and sharing biometric data. OBIM is the lead designated provider of biometric and identity services for DHS, and maintains the largest biometric repository in the U.S. Government.

This system, called the Automated Biometric Identification System or IDENT, is owned and operated by OBIM. IDENT currently holds more than 320 million unique identities and processes more than 400,000 biometric transactions per day.

Through biometric interoperability with the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), DHS shares critical biometric information using advanced data filtering and privacy controls to support the homeland security, defense, and justice missions.

Click below to learn more about the biometric missions of the DoD, DOJ, and other U.S. Government agencies.

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Recent News and Events Related to Biometrics in Government

Last Updated: 01/24/2025
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