Biometrics Institute Survey Highlights Growing Need for Education

The latest 2025 Industry Survey from the Biometrics Institute has unveiled significant trends in the biometrics sector, emphasizing the pressing need for responsible use and increased education surrounding the technology. Conducted in July, the survey gathered insights from over 200 professionals in the biometrics industry worldwide, revealing a notable rise in adoption among police and law enforcement agencies.

Survey respondents indicated that digital identity and artificial intelligence (AI) are anticipated to be the primary areas for future advancements. A shift in national identity programs is also expected to play a crucial role in the evolving landscape of biometrics. The consistent theme emerging from these discussions is the necessity of building trust in biometric systems, particularly as their application expands across various sectors.

The findings follow a previous report titled Concepts and Solutions, released in July, which explored the implications of emerging technologies from the perspective of biometrics providers. This report highlighted the urgency for transparency and accountability in biometric systems, examining 30 real-world use cases to provide practical insights for industry stakeholders.

In alignment with the survey’s findings, the Biometrics Institute has been proactive in its efforts to promote responsible biometrics usage. Recent initiatives include updated Privacy Guidelines designed to assist organizations in addressing challenges such as deepfakes and other privacy-related issues highlighted in the report.

Education is emerging as a vital theme, with 84 percent of respondents asserting that public understanding of biometrics must extend beyond the current community of professionals. In response, the Institute has launched the Fundamentals of Biometrics, an online course aimed at individuals outside the biometrics sector, to foster greater awareness and acceptance.

The Biometrics Institute has a strong history of advocating for ethical practices in the field. Their ongoing series of events keeps industry professionals informed about the latest developments and challenges. Notably, the survey revealed that 85 percent of participants recognize deepfakes as a significant threat to the future of biometrics. This concern is driving a shift towards multimodal biometrics, which combines multiple biometric modalities, as a preferred approach over the coming years.

As the biometrics market continues to grow, the emphasis on education, ethical use, and trust will play a pivotal role in shaping its future. The insights gathered from the 2025 Industry Survey reflect a critical moment for the industry, underscoring the importance of adapting to emerging challenges while fostering a responsible approach to biometric technology.