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Please note: The algorithm descriptions in English have been automatically translated. Errors may have been introduced in this process. For the original descriptions, go to the Dutch version of the Algorithm Register.

Quality determination of fingerprint in travel document

Municipality of De Bilt

Algorithm that supports applications for travel documents and Dutch identity cards. It assesses whether a fingerprint taken is of sufficient quality for inclusion in the travel document.

Last change on 16th of March 2026, at 13:18 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
Publication category
Impactful algorithms
Impact assessment
DPIA
Status
In use

General information

Theme

Organisation and business operations

Begin date

01-2011

Contact information

algoritme_privacy@debilt.nl

Link to publication website

https://debilt.nl/bestuur-en-organisatie/organisatie/privacy-en-algoritmes/algoritmeregister

Responsible use

Goal and impact

Used as technical support to assess whether a fingerprint taken is of sufficient quality.

Considerations

Measuring fingerprint quality:

  1. Increases the reliability of identity verification
  2. Reduces failed biometric verifications
  3. Supports interoperability between systems

The risks mainly relate to privacy and possible exclusion of certain groups, but these can largely be mitigated by technical and organisational measures.

  1. Therefore, the use of a quality algorithm can be proportionate and justified, provided that:The processing is necessary for identity verification,
  2. Appropriate security measures are in place,
  3. Alternative procedures are available in case of low fingerprint quality.


Human intervention

If the index finger is injured or missing, a fingerprint is taken from another finger (the middle finger, ring finger or thumb). If it is impossible to take two fingerprints, a certificate from a qualified doctor or medical institution may be requested. If fingerprints cannot be taken, the application will state whether this is permanent or temporary.

Risk management

Algorithm risk is mitigated by:

- technical quality controls

- alternative procedures in case of poor or missing fingerprints

- privacy and security measures

- human control and organisational procedures

- periodic evaluation and impact assessment.

Legal basis

The legal basis for using an algorithm that assesses fingerprint quality in travel documents comes from:

  1. EU Regulation 2252/2004 - requires biometrics in passports
  2. Dutch Passport Act - regulates recording and use of fingerprints
  3. AVG (Articles 6 and 9) - provides the framework for processing biometric personal data.

The algorithm supports these legal obligations by ensuring that fingerprints of sufficient quality are captured for reliable identity verification.

Links to legal bases

  • Regulation (EC) No 2252/2004: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2004/2252/oj
  • Passport Act: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0005212
  • General data protection regulation: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0040940/2021-07-01

Impact assessment

Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA): https://www.autoriteitpersoonsgegevens.nl/themas/basis-avg/praktisch-avg/data-protection-impact-assessment-dpia

Operations

Data

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