What is EN ISO 19794-6:2019?

EN ISO 19794-6:2019 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements for the creation, formatting, and interchange of fingerprint data. It provides guidelines for the storage and retrieval of fingerprint templates and related data in a way that ensures interoperability between different systems and applications.

Interoperability and Compatibility

One of the key goals of EN ISO 19794-6:2019 is to ensure interoperability and compatibility between different biometric systems and applications. This is achieved through standardizing the structure and format of fingerprint data, including the encoding and compression methods used. By adhering to this standard, organizations can ensure that their fingerprint data can be exchanged and integrated seamlessly with other systems that also comply with EN ISO 19794-6:2019.

For example, a law enforcement agency may use fingerprint data captured by one vendor's system and need to compare it with fingerprint data stored in another vendor's database. By ensuring both systems adhere to EN ISO 19794-6:2019, the agency can reliably exchange and compare the fingerprint data, regardless of the specific hardware or software used.

Data Capture and Quality Assurance

EN ISO 19794-6:2019 also covers guidelines for capturing high-quality fingerprint images. It specifies the technical requirements for fingerprint scanners and image quality assessment. This ensures that the recorded fingerprint images meet certain standards of clarity and detail, making them suitable for accurate identification and verification purposes.

The standard provides guidance on factors such as resolution, platen area, and image distortion, which are critical for capturing reliable fingerprint data. It also outlines recommended processes for quality assurance, including the use of reference fingerprints and procedures for identifying and flagging low-quality images.

Privacy and Security Considerations

EN ISO 19794-6:2019 addresses important privacy and security considerations related to the handling of fingerprint data. It specifies guidelines for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of this sensitive information throughout its lifecycle.

The standard recommends measures such as encryption, access controls, and secure storage to safeguard fingerprint data from unauthorized access or manipulation. It also covers important aspects like data retention periods, data sharing agreements, and the anonymization of personal information when required.

By following these guidelines, organizations can ensure that they handle fingerprint data in a responsible and secure manner, respecting individuals' privacy rights and complying with relevant data protection regulations.