Understanding biometrics and the Fifth Amendment

Nowadays, there is a growing number of applications and uses for biometrics. Many of these are to control access and secure our data in our homes, devices, and computer systems. However, can a governing body or law enforcement compel us to provide authentication by using a biometric identifier such as our face or voice?

Over the last several years, there have been several high-profile cases where someone was requested to provide a biometric to gain access to an electronic device. Whether a defendant or a witness; the question is, "can someone be forced to provide a biometric identifier?"

Let's outline what is included in the Fifth Amendment.

Outlining the Fifth Amendment

The US is governed by the Constitution, which is the highest law of the land. All laws are bound by protecting the rights of the citizens, and any government actions must be in line with the Constitution and the amendments.

The Fifth...