Definition

Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)

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Contributor(s): Edo Bakker

The Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) is a biometric identification (ID) methodology that uses digital imaging technology to obtain, store, and analyze fingerprint data. The AFIS was originally used by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in criminal cases. Lately, it has gained favor for general identification and fraud prevention.

Fingerprinting, as a form of personal identification, is a refined methodology that is proven in practice and accepted in courts of law. AFIS itself has been around for more than 25 years. Recently, a more advanced form of AFIS uses a process called plain-impression live scanning. Several vendors offer AFIS equipment and programs.

This was last updated in June 2007

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Thank you so much for the information. I did not know what A.F.I.S. was until I read this site. Furthermore, it made a television show (Crime Scene Investigation) far more interesting.
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Process of automatically matching one or many unknown fingerprints against a database of known and unknown prints. Automated fingerprint identification systems are primarily used by law enforcement agencies for criminal identification initiatives, the most important of which include identifying a person suspected of committing a crine or linking a suspect to other unsolved crimes.
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I was watching a show on tv the other night , recorded in L.A. with Lisa Ling - called "This is Life". It showed a building where dead bodies (hundreds ) are stored until they are claimed. I was wondering if fingerprints are taken from all of those corpses that are printable & stored in AFIS for future use ,if ever needed , which may show up ,hopefully to solve cases ,when searching for prints ! Sincerely , Ken Fucile P.S. - I hope it is already being done across the North America !
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