All You Need To Know About AFIS

Times have changed. The need for fingerprints is not restricted to the identification of criminals anymore. FBI fingerprints database is also used for background check by employers. In a bid to keep their work environment and employees safe, most employers are now resorting to fingerprint based background check. They request applicants to get their fingerprints captured at a live scan center. The Live scan centers capture fingerprints electronically and transmit the same to the DOJ and FBI to counter check the same with their extensive database of fingerprints. The results depict the criminal record of applicants, if any. The absence of a criminal record assures the employer of hiring the right person and vice versa.

FBI Identification System

 Well, here’s all you need to know about the FBI database and the identification system.

The use of bio-metrics for identification dates back to 1901. It was then that the FBI also created a central repository of criminal identification data for the US law enforcement agencies. Agencies would submit the data of all arrests, offences and convictions.The same details were eventually used to solve criminal cases and identify the offender with the use of bio-metrics. However, everything from maintaining records to matching the fingerprints was done manually. Loads of data was classified and matched by a group of people working for the FBI.

Back then, fingerprints were also rolled in ink and printed on cards. For identification, these prints were manually matched with the prints contained in the FBI’s database. It was a time consuming and tedious process. In fact, the task of matching latent prints was much more intimidating as against ten prints.

Latent prints refer to the prints that are retrieved form a crime spot. These prints are therefore, not completely clear. Conversely, ten prints are captured by applying a coat of ink at the ends of a person’s fingers and then rolled onto a card. Fingerprints are therefore, clear. Matching these was easier as against latent prints.

AFIS

 Well; with the advent of computers and advancements in technology, AFIS (Automated Fingerprint identification system) put an end to the laborious task of matching fingerprints manually. The AFIS came into vogue and began to be used officially for matching fingerprints since 1999. The FBI maintains AFIS, wherein the captured fingerprints are automatically matched with the extensive database maintained by the FBI. The state, federal and other law enforcement agencies capture the fingerprints of criminals during arrests and submit the same to this database. It is maintained by the FBI and has proved handy in solving criminal cases. Back in 2015, the FBI decided to include the details of other offences, for instance: fraud, misrepresentation, etc.

This change has helped employers to run a background check on prospective employees successfully. Employers request applicants to visit a live scan center to scan and transmit their fingerprints to the FBI. Thanks to the AFIS, captured fingerprints are matched with the database in a matter of minutes. Results are returned over a span of 24 to 48 hours, as against days and weeks required in matching manually.

The AFIS not only saves time in matching fingerprints, but is also more reliable. In fact, it is easier to match latent prints too.

As fingerprints are unique to a person, fingerprint based identification is treated as the gold standard for personal identification. This is the reason why more and more employers are resorting to fingerprint based background check as a part of the pre-employment process.

Well, live scan centers providing fingerprinting return the results to the employers or agencies requesting for the same.

One such trustworthy and professional live scan center is Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan.

For further details, contact them at www.anshinotary.com