What Is the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA)?
The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) is a state law that regulates how businesses collect, store, and use biometric information such as fingerprints, facial scans, retina scans, and other unique identifiers.
BIPA was created to help protect personal biometric data and give individuals more control over how their information is used.
What Is Considered Biometric Information?
Biometric information may include:
- Fingerprints
- Facial recognition data
- Retina scans
- Iris scans
- Hand geometry scans
These identifiers are unique to each person and are commonly used in modern security systems.

Why Does BIPA Matter?
Businesses using biometric technology must take steps to protect the information they collect.
The law focuses on:
- Data privacy
- Data security
- Proper handling of biometric information
- Responsible use of biometric technology
Organizations using biometric security should understand applicable requirements before deploying systems.
Which Businesses Use Biometric Security?
Many Illinois organizations use biometric security systems, including:
- Healthcare facilities
- Banks and financial institutions
- Commercial offices
- Manufacturing facilities
- Schools and universities
- Multifamily properties
- Retail businesses
- Cannabis facilities
These systems help improve access control and reduce unauthorized entry.
The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) is a law that regulates the collection, storage, and use of biometric information such as fingerprints, facial recognition data, and retina scans. The law is designed to help protect biometric privacy and data security.
How Sentry Security Helps Illinois Businesses
Sentry Security helps businesses throughout Illinois implement advanced biometric security solutions that integrate with existing security systems.
Available solutions include:
- Biometric Security
- Access & Door Entry Systems
- Integrated Security Systems
- Video Surveillance
- Visitor Management
- Remote Access Management
- Monitoring Services
Our team designs, installs, supports, and maintains customized security systems for businesses across Illinois.
FAQs
What is BIPA in Illinois?
BIPA stands for the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act, a law that regulates biometric data collection and use.
Does BIPA apply to fingerprint scanners?
Yes. Fingerprint-based biometric systems may fall under BIPA requirements.
Why is biometric data protected?
Biometric information is unique to an individual and cannot be easily changed if compromised, making data protection important.