Take care of biometrics from a young age: Natalia Kaspersky warns of danger

Natalia Kaspersky is a co-founder of Kaspersky Lab and president of the InfoWatch Group of companies. In a recent interview with RIA Novosti, she warned Russians about a new danger. The data protection expert recommends not to distribute biometric data, as it will not be possible to change them.

Kaspersky reminded that biometrics is not a login and password or even a graphic key. It will be impossible to change them, even with a strong desire. If this data falls into the hands of cybercriminals, the consequences may be irreparable.

The risk of biometric data leakage increases one factor. It turns out that today there are no effective ideas on how to protect this personal information. It is necessary to take into account the threat posed not only by criminals, but also by the staff of the services.

The president of InfoWatch is concerned that people's faces are being filmed by cameras on the streets and in public places. Of course, this is done without their knowledge and it is unknown to whom the images fall. Biometric information can be stolen or simply made public, and this is already dangerous.

Meanwhile, the state and large companies are increasingly forcing citizens to provide biometrics. In November 2020, the Ministry of Finance announced that it was preparing the introduction of digital passports and driver's licenses. In September 2021, the Moscow Metro began operating the Face Pay fare payment system.

Professor Philip Agre spoke about the danger of artificial intelligence and the collection of personal data 30 years ago.