Disney World is a magical place filled with whimsy and wonder, but have you ever wondered why they take your fingerprint when you enter the park? This practice may seem a bit odd for a theme park, but it serves a very specific purpose: preventing ticket fraud. In this article, we will take a deep dive into why Disney World takes your fingerprint, how the technology works, and what alternatives exist for those who prefer not to provide their biometric data.
Disney World takes your fingerprint as part of their Ticket Tag system to prevent ticket fraud. When a visitor scans their fingerprint, a unique number is assigned to that fingerprint and linked to their ticket, ensuring that each ticket corresponds with a specific person. This makes it difficult for people to sell used tickets or share them with others. The original fingerprint image is discarded immediately after generating the numerical value, and those who prefer not to provide their fingerprint can opt out and use a photo ID instead.
Disney’s Fingerprint Scanning: A Countermeasure Against Ticket Fraud
Disney World has been using biometric fingerprint scanning since 1996 as part of their Ticket Tag system. The main purpose of this system is to prevent ticket fraud. When a visitor scans their fingerprint, Disney assigns a unique number to that fingerprint, which is then linked to the visitor’s ticket. This ensures that every Disney ticket corresponds with a specific person, making it difficult for people to sell used tickets or share them with others.
How Does The Technology Work?
Disney World uses a biometric fingerprint scanning system called Ticket Tag. When guests enter the park, they place a single finger on a scanner, which captures an image of the finger and converts it into a unique numerical value. The numerical value is then linked to the guest’s ticket in the ticketing database. The original fingerprint image is discarded immediately after generating the numerical value.
Security and Privacy Concerns
Many visitors might be concerned about the security and privacy of their fingerprint data. Disney World assures visitors that the park does not store anyone’s prints and that the data is kept separate from other systems. They have implemented technical, administrative, and physical security measures designed to protect guest information from unauthorized access, disclosure, use, and modification.
Opting Out of Fingerprint Scanning
Visitors who do not wish to provide their fingerprints at Disney World can opt out of the finger scan and use a photo ID instead. To do this, guests can go to any guest relations window at any of the theme parks or Disney Springs and ask to opt out. A cast member will then update the account to indicate that the visitor has opted out of fingerprint scanning.
The Impact of Disney’s Fingerprinting Policy on the Public
The public’s reaction to Disney World’s fingerprinting policy has been mixed. Some people have raised concerns about privacy and data security, while others have accepted it as a necessary measure to prevent ticket fraud. However, Disney World maintains that they do not store fingerprint data and only uses it to confirm the identity of the ticket holder.
Biometric Technology in Other Industries
Disney World’s use of fingerprint scanners has influenced other industries to adopt biometric technologies like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning to improve security and efficiency. For example, ASM Global, one of the world’s largest entertainment producers, has embraced facial verification payments at some of its biggest venues in partnership with technology provider PopID.
Conclusion
While the use of fingerprints at Disney World has raised some eyebrows, it’s clear that the primary purpose is to ensure the security of park tickets and prevent fraud. With alternatives available for those uncomfortable with scanning their fingerprints, Disney World continues to prioritize the safety and comfort of its guests. As biometric technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more companies following in Disney’s footsteps to ensure a secure and smooth customer experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Disney World the only Disney park that uses fingerprint scanning?
No, Disney World is not the only Disney park that uses fingerprint scanning. This system is also in place at Disneyland in California and at other Disney parks around the world.
How long does Disney World keep the numerical value associated with my fingerprint?
Disney World keeps the numerical value associated with your fingerprint for the duration of your ticket validity. Once the ticket has expired, the information is deleted.
What happens if the fingerprint scanner doesn’t work or can’t read my fingerprint?
If the fingerprint scanner doesn’t work or can’t read your fingerprint, Disney World staff can manually override the system and allow you entry. You may also be asked to show a valid photo ID.
Does the fingerprint scanning process slow down the entry process into the park?
While the fingerprint scanning process does add an extra step to the entry process, it is generally quick and does not significantly slow down entry into the park.
Are children required to scan their fingerprints too?
No, children under the age of 3 are not required to scan their fingerprints. However, children aged 3 and above are required to participate in the fingerprint scanning process.
