Top compliance questions to ask your biometric tech provider
In today’s digital era, the applications of biometric technology stretch far and wide. It’s used for access control, payments, time and attendance, and ticketing across industries like healthcare, banking, transportation, and consumer electronics. However, the sensitivity of biometric data makes privacy and responsible data governance critical.
With great power comes great responsibility, and in the case of biometric technology, that responsibility is defined by compliance with laws and regulations as well as a transparent and respectful relationship with the consumer. Businesses employing biometric systems must be aware of laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), and others that set stringent guidelines for data collection, storage, and use.
Given the stakes involved in handling biometric data, choosing a biometric service provider is an important decision. Not all providers are created equal, and it’s essential that your biometric partner has security protocols that meet the strictest regulatory standards. A reputable provider should have a proven track record of compliance and be forthcoming about their security practices. They should be well-versed in encryption, data anonymization, and other best practices to keep biometric data safe from compromise or breach.
Let’s dive into 3 compliance questions to ask your biometric tech provider.
Question: #1: Is software that I can leverage for things like enrollment, deletion, and data management included with the hardware?
Why is this question important?
Many biometric providers only offer biometric hardware. That’s it. While that can work for some companies, a lack of core software such as enrollment flows, user account management, and data controls often adds a ton of additional cost, time, and headaches to a deployment.
Effective software is a huge component of biometric systems. Smooth enrollment flows that make it easy for your customers to get signed up, and compliant data control packages are just two of the ways that a good partner can make your deployment much easier.
What their answer could imply about the provider’s compliance standard
The answer to this question can shed light on the potential functionality, scalability, and compliance implications of the solution. A software-integrated approach often offers enhanced capabilities and better alignment with compliance requirements, while a device-only solution may be more limited in scope and put the onus of compliance on you, the customer.
Question #2: Are there automated compliance tools, such as deletion controls, in place?
Why is this question important?
Deletion controls are an essential component of the data management process. They ensure that once biometric data has served its purpose, or when a user withdraws consent, the data can be permanently and safely deleted from the provider’s systems. This is crucial not only for upholding an individual’s right to privacy but also for complying with strict data protection regulations.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States emphasize the importance of giving users control over their personal data. Automated deletion controls provide a reliable solution by enforcing data retention policies without manual intervention, thereby reducing the risk of human error or oversight
What their answer could imply about the provider’s compliance standard
Some providers may only have basic deletion controls in place, while others might have comprehensive compliance platforms. Understanding the scope of services your provider offers, and identifying what you might need, is crucial.
Question #3: Have you completed any 3rd party audits or certifications, such as SOC II?
Why is this question important?
Third-party audits, like SOC 2, provide an unbiased evaluation of a provider’s security measures and operational practices. These audits are conducted by independent, certified professionals who thoroughly examine the provider’s systems, processes, and controls. Their stamp of approval carries significant weight and offers assurance to customers that their data is in capable hands.
What their answer could imply about the provider’s compliance standard
When a biometric technology provider has successfully completed a SOC 2 audit, it means that they are not “grading their own homework.” That means another company has come in to validate their data security practices and controls, which speaks volumes about their prioritization of security and compliance. It demonstrates that they have invested time and resources into establishing robust policies, implementing stringent access controls, and maintaining comprehensive documentation. A SOC 2 compliant provider is more likely to have strong data protection measures, reliable systems and processes, transparent policies, and continuous monitoring and improvement. On the other hand, a provider who has not undergone a SOC 2 audit or is reluctant to discuss their compliance posture may warrant further scrutiny. While it doesn’t automatically mean they are unreliable, it does raise questions about their security standards and ability to meet regulatory requirements.
At Keyo, privacy is our top priority.
Keyo is a global biometric identity platform that allows anyone to prove who they are and access what’s theirs with a wave of their hand. Our solution encompasses the cutting-edge hardware necessary for a comprehensive biometric system and a fully integrated software suite. This combination ensures our partners can deploy biometric solutions quickly and, most importantly, securely.
Keyo simplifies adherence to various compliance standards, from GDPR to CCPA to BIPA, with features like automated notifications, straightforward consent management, and effortless account deletion, making it one of the most user-friendly and privacy-centric biometric solutions on the market. Additionally, Keyo’s SOC 2 certification ensures our customers can trust us with their sensitive information, knowing it’s handled with the utmost integrity and reliability.
The bottom line
Data integrity, security, and privacy compliance are not just technical challenges — they are ethical imperatives. Businesses must understand the importance of these factors and consider them non-negotiable elements of their biometric strategy. To learn more about Keyo’s encryption protocols, compliance tools, automated notifications, and support please contact hello@keyo.co
Disclaimer: The content shared on this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please consult with a qualified attorney.
