We regularly share more information online that we realize. We post on social media websites, we share our locations on our phones, and we share information when we play games or use apps. Even personal information that we assumed was private is not too difficult to uncover. With a little hacking, where we bank and the answers to our security questions can be revealed.
Google, Facebook and Twitter, among others, have set themselves up as “identity providers.” For example, if you click “Login using Facebook” on another website, you’re allowing Facebook to represent you online. You may not be aware that these companies are collecting and selling your data – and making a profit.
So who owns your digital identity? Right now, no one really does, including you. Currently there are no clear, accepted guidelines for digital identities. The European Union (EU) is developing the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to give EU individuals more control over their private information. But until we have clearly defined, accepted standards for use and protection or our digital identities, no one will truly own their digital identity.
Do you own your biometric data? The answer here will put you at ease. Mobile devices that use your fingerprint or facial scan don’t actually use your biometric data for matching. A template is created when you register your fingerprint or facial scan, and that template is what is actually used for access. The actual biometric information does not get sent to any companies.
What about Apple or Google – companies that have access to your device for push notifications or security? No, they don’t have access to your biometric data. All the major players follow the accepted guidelines for security. Your biometric template data is encrypted (protected even from the manufacturer) and the actual biometric image is destroyed. The standalone template is useless if stolen. If your biometric information is securely encrypted and stored, your data is safe. You are in control of your biometric data.
Who Owns Your Identity?
By John Callahan, June 15, 2017, for Veridium | Identity
Who Owns Your Biometric Data?
By Ian E. Muller, Sept. 7, 2017, for Veridium | Data Privacy
Photo credit: verkeorg
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