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Eye Tracking: Iris Scanning Is Coming, Like It Or Not

Eye Tracking: Iris Scanning Is Coming, Like It Or Not As technology becomes more advanced, it becomes integrated into our world in ways in which we have little control. Before you know it, our society may look more like something out of Steven Spielberg’s Minority Report, which has been referenced ad nauseam in regard to iris scanning and Big Brother speculation. Biometric technologies are creating quite a stir as new applications and inventions are released into the public sector.

The website, FastCompany.com mentions a biometrics research and development firm called Global Rainmakers that recently announced the release of its iris scanning technology that will be used in a project to create “the most secure city in the world.” Engaged in a partnership with Leon, one of the largest cities in Mexico, Global Rainmakers Inc. is planning to infiltrate the city with eye scanners in attempt to crack down on fraud and increase identity security.

To create the system, the city of Leon is gathering a database of iris scans. Once convicted, criminals’ irises will be scanned and added to the database automatically. Everyone else will have the option to opt-in if they so please. What’s the incentive to enroll? Convenience. Instead of having to swipe a metro or bank card when they use the train or ATM, residents can scan their irises instead. Law enforcement will have the ability to monitor the scans and track various individuals on watch lists throughout the city, following their movements.

GRI’s CDO, Jeff Carter predicts that fraud, a $50 billion problem, will be completely eradicated. “If you’ve been convicted of crime, in essence, this will act as a digital scarlet letter,” says Carter. “If you’re a known shoplifter, for example, you won’t be able to go into a store without being flagged. For others, boarding a plane will be impossible.”

I can think of a million reasons something like this could go wrong, but it’s fair to say that it’s a solution that’s already on the table and deserves a thorough debate before it sets out to “revolutionize” society.

“In the future,” Carter says, “whether it’s entering your home, opening your car, entering your workspace, getting a pharmacy prescription refilled, or having your medical records pulled up, everything will come off that unique key that is your iris.”

Keep an eye on news to come – it’s bound to make for a fascinating debate.

Iris Scanners Create the Most Secure City in the World. Welcome, Big Brother

Eye Tracking: Iris Scanning Is Coming, Like It Or Not

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