05/21/2025

1 in 10 Consumers Reject Transactions Over Biometric Data Concerns, Study Shows

IDTech Wire

The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) has released new research highlighting widespread consumer unease about the collection and use of biometric data. According to the report, roughly one in 10 consumers have opted out of transactions rather than submit biometric information, signaling resistance to technologies that are becoming increasingly embedded in digital services.

The study explores how consumers perceive biometric technologies like facial and fingerprint verification at a time when these tools are being rapidly adopted across sectors. While most respondents recognized the potential for biometrics to help prevent identity theft and impersonation, the report found notable differences in how the technology is perceived. Women, in particular, were more likely to express doubts about the benefits of biometric systems, suggesting a gender gap in confidence and comfort with these technologies.

The findings build on the ITRC’s previous work through its Biometric Working Group, which in late 2023 examined ways to strengthen identity verification systems while addressing privacy and bias concerns.