MAGNETIC FINGERPRINTING, AFIS AND BEYOND IN FORENSIC SCIENCE: A REVIEW

Abstract

This review analyzes fingerprint identification technologies from different perspectives with particular attention being paid to both the traditional methods and cutting-edge inventions. The study integrates the findings from a large body of literature, covering both historical developments, technological innovations, experimental research, and the practical applications of forensic science. This includes inkless methods like magnetic resonance fingerprinting and automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) along with their modern way of depositing fingerprints using nanomaterials and macromolecules. In addition, this paper discusses the challenges and limitations of fingerprint identification, particularly the technical problems, the legal and ethical considerations and the need of human intervention in AFIS technology. The review, through comparative analysis and the discussion of the findings from various studies, gives insights into the value of fingerprint identification in criminal investigations and shows the emerging trends and future prospects in the field. It also offers insights for the researchers and forensic scientists a roadmap to combine the novel technologies with the existing practices in forensic science which might enhance the reliability as well as the accuracy of fingerprint identification.