Biometric ID System For Israel Day Workers

Oberthur Smart Cards USA said it and On Track Innovations, an Israeli company that specializes in contactless smart card systems, are prime contractors to Israel's Ministry of Defense for a biometric identification system at border crossings.

The system will serve daily workers who cross into Israeli territory. The combination of advanced capabilities -- hand and face biometrics and contactless, meaning the cards operate at high speed without being inserted into a terminal -- will allow for automatic screening at border gates.

The program was designed by a consortium led by Electronic Data Systems Corp. and is expected to grow to several million smart cards.

"This technology, once reserved for high-security military or defense clients, can now provide individuals with security and convenience when crossing international borders," said Philippe Tartavull, the president and chief executive officer of the U.S. unit of France-based Oberthur. "We imagine this system could be used globally at any country's entry point to expedite customs and security procedures as well."

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