Among the many innovations that make our lives more convenient and secure, biometrics has become indispensable for authentication and identification. However, the growing use of innovative tools has also raised concerns about protecting personal data as required by the General Data Protection Law (GDPL).
In this article, we will explore the treatment of biometrics within the confines of the GDPL to dispel the myths about lack of privacy and highlight the importance of regulatory compliance.
What the GDPL says about biometrics
The General Data Protection Law, enacted in September 2020, sets strict rules for processing personal information, including biometrics.
According to the GDPL, sensitive data is information directly related to the most intimate aspects of an individual's personality, such as personal data concerning race, religion, or politics, data regarding health or sex life, and genetic or biometric data. Since biometrics refers to the unique characteristics of each individual used to identify and authenticate an identity, it is considered sensitive data.
A significant concern with biometrics has been the potential for data breaches since sensitive information is being collected. The GDPL, however, has been designed to address this very concern.
The GDPL seeks to ensure that personal data handled by companies is collected, stored, and processed ethically and securely, striking a balance between technological innovation and the protection of individual rights.
The law requires special treatment, such as obtaining explicit consent from data subjects.
The law does not prohibit the use of biometrics. However, clear guidelines exist for collecting, using, and protecting sensitive personal information. The law states that organizations must obtain individuals' explicit and informed consent before collecting their biometric data.
This means that people must be fully aware of how companies will use their data and be free to choose whether or not to provide this information.
But how does that work in practice? We'll see.
Demystifying the lack of privacy
By following the GDPL's strict guidelines, organizations can dispel the notion that biometrics lack privacy. Doing it will help ensure that biometric data is handled responsibly and according to privacy laws.
This includes obtaining consent and implementing robust security measures to protect data from unauthorized access and leakage.
Responsible use of biometrics with GDPL
A thoughtful approach to integrating biometrics in compliance with the GDPL involves multiple aspects, from the design process to the ongoing operation of systems.
Organizations should adopt a "privacy by design" philosophy, which ensures privacy from the earliest stages of system development. This includes implementing technical and organizational safeguards to ensure the security of this data.
In addition, transparency becomes a key element. Organizations are responsible for providing clear information on how biometrics are collected and used and who has access to that information.
GDPL and BioPass ID
Considering the responsibility of companies, BioPass ID is an example of a solution that is fully aligned with the requirements of GDPL.
The platform confirms its commitment to protecting the rights and privacy of individuals by adopting the legal guidelines, as it complied with the requirements even before the law became effective.
The platform incorporates the most advanced security technology available on the market, with a proactive and robust approach to biometric data management.
These benefits raise compliance standards and reinforce the pursuit of excellence in protecting sensitive data. Here are some ways BioPass ID makes all biometric data safer and more secure.
- The first essential step is mapping the biometric data that will be collected, stored, and processed. It includes information such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and voice characteristics.
- It is also necessary to establish a solid legal basis for collecting and processing biometric data, which may include the data owner's explicit consent or the need to process the information to fulfill an existing contract.
- Transparency also plays an important role. It is essential to provide clear and detailed information to data owners about how biometric data will be used, how long it will be stored, and who will have access to it.
- Consent is a fundamental principle. Before collecting and processing biometric data, obtaining the data owners' informed consent is necessary. This consent must be specific, unambiguous, and revocable at any time.
- Security is a crucial factor. Implementing robust measures to protect biometric data from unauthorized access, misuse, and security breaches is critical. This can include techniques such as cryptography, more robust authentication, and continuous monitoring.
- Data reduction is an essential practice. Companies should limit data collection to what is strictly necessary for the intended purpose to avoid excessive collection of information.
- Restricted access is also an important consideration and should be limited to only those individuals who are authorized to use it.
- A limited retention period is also essential. Therefore, defining a reasonable retention time to delete the biometric data is necessary.
- Ensuring the rights of data owners is an essential obligation. Data owners must be able to exercise their rights, such as access, correction, deletion, and portability of biometric data.
- Employees responsible for data handling must be trained and aware of the importance of data protection. Training employees on data protection best practices and emphasizing the importance of responsible use of biometric data is essential.
- Finally, in situations in which there is a high risk to the rights and freedoms of data subjects, a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) is recommended.
By adhering to all the data processing procedures outlined above, BioPass ID ensures that protection begins with collecting information, certification of internal processes, and GDPL certification.
Comply with the GDPL with BioPass ID
As mentioned above, biometrics offer security and convenience, but companies must use it ethically and by laws such as the GDPL.
Technology and privacy are intertwined and require organizations to prioritize compliance and protecting individuals' rights. Transparent and respectful practices build trust in technology, and compliance and ethics are essential to a safer digital future.
A conscious approach to biometrics in compliance with the law reduces privacy concerns and guarantees benefits without compromising rights.
Contact our experts for more information on how BioPass ID works.
Translation: Stephanie Hora
