Guide Note

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is compiling the largest biometrics database in the world as part of a billion-dollar project. Biometrics are physical attributes and characteristics that can be used to precisely identify people.¹

Fast Facts

1. Cost: $1 billion¹
2. 10-year contract for biometric database expansion¹
3. Database used to combat crime and terrorism
4. FBI has fingerprints for over 50 million people²
5. Critics fear Big Brother-esque government surveillance³

1. Founded: 1908
2. Headquarters: Washington, DC
3. Director: Robert S. Mueller III

The FBI already has a biometric database that includes fingerprints, palm scans, and facial images. However, this project looks to expand the database considerably and include even more attributes, such as:¹

1. Iris patterns
2. Scars and other identifying marks
3. Shapes of facial features
4. Speech patterns