Should my law firm use Biometric Identity Checks?
Law firms are entrusted with vast amounts of sensitive information, such as bank accounts and personal details, and have a responsibility to protect it. With cybercrime on the rise and the potential for identity theft increasing, firms need to implement effective measures to safeguard their data and their client's data. Biometric identity checking is an innovative solution that many law firms are turning to as a reliable method of identity verification. Furthermore, it offers a convenience benefit that meets the needs of today's client who expects seamless digital experiences from their service providers.
In this blog post, we'll explore how biometric identity verification works, its benefits and drawbacks, and why it should be considered by law firms.
What is Biometric Identity Checking?
Biometric identity checking is a method of identity verification that relies on unique physical or behavioural characteristics to authenticate individuals. Some examples of biometric identifiers include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, and voice recognition. Biometric data is collected through specialised software connected to a device, which then compares the captured data to data stored in a database or against an authorised document like a passport or driver's license. If the biometric data matches, the user's identity is verified.
Benefits of Biometric Identity Checks for law firms
One of the biggest advantages of biometric identity checks is the level of accuracy and security it provides. Unlike traditional methods of identity verification such as passwords or paper documents which can be lost or stolen, biometric identifiers cannot be easily replicated or duplicated. Biometric data is unique to each individual, making it nearly impossible for anyone else to gain access to sensitive information or falsely claim to be someone they’re not. This helps to ensure the confidentiality of a law firm's data and protects clients' privacy.
Another benefit of biometric identity verification is the speed and convenience it provides. Using software on a device and authorised documents, a user can be quickly and easily authenticated without the need for passwords, printing copies of documents or other time-consuming security methods. Furthermore, this can speed up matters for the client and fee earner as a firm can verify a client’s identity remotely so they don’t need to see them in person, which also is much more convenient for clients who struggle to find time to visit an office. This can help to improve productivity and efficiency within a law firm, as employees can focus on their work rather than spend time dealing with authentication issues or waiting on clients to come into the office to be verified in person.
Risks of Biometric Identity Checks for law firms
While biometric identity checks offer many benefits, there are also potential downsides to consider. One concern is the security of the biometric data itself. If a law firm's biometric database is hacked or compromised, the data could be stolen and used for malicious purposes. However, this risk is relatively low as there are strict regulations and security protocols in place about the storage and handling of biometric data.
Another potential drawback is certain customer groups will not feel comfortable with this technology or form of identity verification therefore firms will still need to provide the option for face-to-face identity checks even though they’ve invested in new software or technology. However, a large proportion of society is now very familiar and accepting of biometric authentication with many online banking applications and other services now accessed using face scanning, fingerprint technology and voice recognition. One UK survey found that 44% of participants said that they regularly use fingerprint scanning, with the second-highest biometric method being face scans (24%)[1].
Why Law Firms Should Consider Biometric Identity Checks
Biometric identity checking provides a reliable and secure method of identity verification that can help protect law firms from cybercrime and identity theft while also providing the digital experience clients now expect. It offers a level of accuracy and convenience that traditional security methods cannot match. By using biometric identity checks, law firms can improve their data security, safeguard their client's privacy, and boost overall efficiency and productivity.
In a time when cyber security is constantly threatened, law firms can't take any chances when it comes to the security of their data. Biometric identity checking provides an innovative solution that can help firms mitigate these risks. While there are some potential drawbacks to consider, the benefits of biometric identity checks far outweigh these concerns. By using this method, law firms can provide a reliable and secure environment for their employees and clients, thus guaranteeing trust and confidence in their practice.
How Access Legal can help firms implement Biometric Identity Verification
Access Legal offer a biometric identity verification service, to complement our AML Checks, which includes a liveness face check of your client, alongside a fraud check on the document (Passport or Driving Licence). The service is available through the LB Law platform or can be ordered directly through our Access Legal Case Management systems which means you can order and return results back to the relevant matter.
The find out more visit our Biometric Identity Verification System page.
[1] https://www.capterra.co.uk/blog/2715/covid-monitoring-and-biometric-data-uk-consumers#How-often-do-UK-consumers-use-biometric-methods
