Biometric Privacy Laws in 2025: What Security Integrators Need to Know

Biometric technologies like fingerprint scanners, facial recognition, and iris readers are transforming access control across healthcare, education, corporate, and government sectors. But with this growth comes increased scrutiny. In 2025, more than 20 U.S. states have enacted or proposed biometric privacy laws, making legal compliance a critical concern for security integrators.

What Are Biometric Privacy Laws?

Biometric privacy laws regulate how biometric identifiers - such as fingerprints, facial geometry, and iris scans - are collected, stored, used, and shared. These laws aim to protect individuals from unauthorized use of their most personal data.

Key U.S. Biometric Laws in 2025:

• Illinois BIPA (Biometric Information Privacy Act): Requires written consent, clear data retention policies, and secure storage. Violations can result in substantial fines and class-action lawsuits.

• Texas CUBI (Capture or Use of Biometric Identifier Act): Mandates notice and consent before collecting biometric data, though enforcement is less aggressive than BIPA.

• Washington BPPA (Biometric Privacy Protection Act): Requires transparency and consent, with a focus on consumer rights and data minimization.

• Other states - including California, New York, Maryland, and Virginia - have passed or are considering similar legislation 

What Integrators Must Do to Stay Compliant:

As the bridge between manufacturers, software providers, and end users, security integrators play a pivotal role in ensuring biometric systems are legally compliant.

Best Practices for Integrators:

1. Know the Laws: Stay informed about state-specific biometric regulations and how they apply to your clients’ industries and locations.

2. Educate Clients: Help clients understand their legal obligations and the risks of non-compliance.

3. Choose Privacy-First Vendors: Partner with manufacturers and software providers that offer built-in privacy features and strong data protection.

4. Design for Data Minimization: Avoid unnecessary biometric data collection. Use only what’s essential for authentication or access.

5. Implement Retention & Deletion Policies: Ensure biometric data is stored securely and deleted according to legal timelines.

6. Enable Consent Workflows: Deploy signage, digital consent forms, and opt-in mechanisms before activating biometric systems.

Why Compliance Matters More Than Ever:

Failing to comply with biometric privacy laws can lead to:

• Legal penalties and lawsuits

• Loss of client trust

• Damage to brand reputation

With courts increasingly enforcing these laws and consumers more aware of their rights, integrators must take a proactive approach to privacy and compliance 

Final Thoughts: Compliance Is a Competitive Advantage

Integrators who understand and implement biometric privacy best practices are better positioned to win business, build trust, and deliver secure, future-ready solutions. As biometric access control becomes the norm, compliance isn’t just a legal requirement - it’s a business imperative.

See Parabit's biometric device housings, mounts and posts here.