Effect of Ease of Use and Fallibility of Biometric Fingerprint Technology in Criminal Identification in Kenya

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the factors influencing the use of Biometric Fingerprint Technology in criminal identification in Kenya. The specific objectives for the study were toassess the effect of Ease of use and fallibility of biometric fingerprint technology on Criminal Identification in Kenya. The study was grounded on probability theory and technology acceptance model. The study used a census. The study targeted140 fingerprint officers working at the National Registration Bureau at the Huduma Centers, National Registration Bureau headquarters, and Langata, Kariakor, Pumwani and Makadara stations. Primary data was collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. SPSS software version 22 was used to analyze the data. Descriptive and regression analysis were used. Multiplelinear regressions were used to examine the effect of the variables on criminal identification. All the statistical tests were carried out at 5% level of significance.Correlation results revealed that Ease of useand fallibility of BFTpositively and significantly influence criminal identification. Regression results showed that Ease of use of BFT positively and significantly influencesCriminal Identification (β = 0.296, Sig = 0.000). Moreover, regression results revealed that Fallibility of biometric fingerprint technology had a positive and significant influence on Criminal Identification (β = 0.226, Sig = 0.000).The study recommends the management of National Registration Bureau to ensure that their fingerprint officers capture quality level fingerprint impressions during the registration process using BFT in order to ensure that individuals are accurately authenticated thereby preventing and detecting criminal activities.Othermeans identification such as DNA should be incorporated as a change in environmental conditions causes fingerprints to be unrecognizable and in cases of cuts or burns or extreme weight gain or loss, higher level of deformity of fingers.