NCIS is leading the way in applying biometrics technology. Biometrics is incorporated into NCIS operations to provide unique bio-technological means to identify, track, and further exploit persons of intelligence and national security interest. Examples of NCIS early biometric success include full participation in the FBI's Integrated Automated Fingerprint Information System (IAFIS); the deployment of a biometrics-equipped forensics lab in Fallujah, Iraq, which allowed for real-time response and delivery of actionable information to commanders in the field; and fielding live scan digital fingerprint devices to major field offices located around the world -- these devices enable capture, automated quality checks, transmission, and enrollment of fingerprint data to the FBI's IAFIS within minutes.

The Biometrics Division is in the process of deploying portable biometrics devices to high risk mission areas such as Afghanistan and the Horn of Africa.  These portable devices capture fingerprint, iris and face biometrics at field locations, run automated quality checks, and transmit the data to both DoD's Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) and IAFIS to determine whether or not a suspect or informant has a terrorist, pirate or other criminal record.