NIST's National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) has released a new draft report, NIST Interagency or Internal Report (NISTIR) 8334, Using Mobile Device Biometrics for Authenticating First Responders.

Many public safety organizations (PSOs) are adopting mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to provide first responders with immediate access to the sensitive information they need from any location. However, authentication requirements meant to safeguard that information, like entering a complex password, can hinder access. Many PSOs are looking towards mobile biometric solutions to authenticate their users efficiently. Before adopting these solutions, PSOs must make informed risk decisions on their use and deployment.

This report examines how first responders could use mobile device biometrics in an authentication system and what challenges they may face in deploying these systems. This report was developed in a joint partnership between the NCCoE and the Public Safety Communications Research (PSCR) Division at NIST. PSOs considering using biometrics for authenticating first responders are encouraged to use the guidelines in this NISTIR.

The public comment period for this draft is open through July 19, 2021. See the publication details for a copy of the draft and instructions for submitting comments. You can also contact us at psfr-nccoe@nist.gov.

NOTE: A call for patent claims is included on page iii of this draft. For additional information, see the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) Patent Policy--Inclusion of Patents in ITL Publications.