Why We Should Be Careful with Biometric Data at Work

Biometric data is information about your body. This includes things like your fingerprint, your face, your voice, or even the way you move. Some workplaces use this data to help employees clock in, open doors, or use computers. While it might seem cool, there are reasons to be careful.

Your fingerprint or face scan is not like a password. You can’t change it if it gets stolen. If someone gets your biometric data, they might use it to pretend to be you. That’s why it’s important to ask how your information is being used and kept safe.

Employers also need to be careful. In Illinois, there is a law called the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). This law says that companies must tell workers what biometric data they are collecting, why they are collecting it, and how long they will keep it. They must also get written permission from workers before collecting this kind of data. If they don’t follow the law, they can be taken to court and may have to pay money (Illinois General Assembly, 2008).

Biometric data is very personal. Everyone should understand their rights. Employers should protect this information just like they protect other private data. It’s not just about the law—it’s about respecting people.

Before giving a fingerprint or face scan at work, ask questions. It’s okay to speak up. Privacy and safety matter!

References

Illinois General Assembly. (2008). Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=3004&ChapterID=57ACLU. (2022). Biometric Data and Privacy. https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/biometrics-what-you-need-to-know