Public Perceptions of Biometric Devices: The Effect of Misinformation on Acceptance and Use

Organizations are introducing biometric devices into various sections of the economy for various reasons. What began as a security feature for a limited number of government organizations has been adapted to such diverse uses as paying for school children’s lunches to tracking employees’ work attendance. From an organizational perspective, justifications for use of biometric devices are plentiful. However, the public’s perception of these devices may be quite different. These perceptions in turn will influence public willingness to accept and use biometric devices. Although employee use of biometric devices can be mandated, a more productive alternative might be to understand their perceptions and address those specifically through education and information. This paper describes common types of biometrics, reviews their current use in organizations, presents findings of a recent survey of public perceptions to determine the areas requiring the most education, and concludes with suggestions for providing this education.