DHS expands its biometric database

System of records notice

The Homeland Security Department is expanding its Automated Biometric Identification System (Ident) to include biometric and limited personal information collected for immigration, intelligence, law enforcement and national security programs.

DHS uses that system and the Enforcement Operational Immigration Records (Enforce) to store biometic and case management information gathered from the Bureau of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.

Originally, the two systems were one under the name Enforce/Ident. Under the revised regulation, the systems will operate independently.

The U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology program will manage Ident. Biometric information collected for the system system will apply to:

• The implementation and enforcement of laws, regulations, treaties or orders related to DHS’ missions.


• Background checks or security screening in connection hiring new employees or issuing licenses and credentials.


• Data collected by federal, state, local and foreign agencies pertaining to wanted individuals and subjects of interest.

Biometric information in the system will be available to other organizations including federal, state, local, tribal, foreign and international agencies.