Expanded Facial Comparison

What is an expanded facial comparison?

In an expanded facial comparison, two biometric examiners work independently on the same comparison.
As part of the case work, the two examiners will perform an image analysis of the images followed by a detailed analysis and documentation of the visible facial features such as eyes, nose, ears, facial marks, and wrinkles, etc. This is called a 'blind process' where the examiners works on the case without knowing each other's identity and the results of the analysis. This approach minimizes the risk of the two examiners’ initial examination being influenced by each other.

The individual facial features are then compared, after which the examiners makes an evaluation to assess how likely it is that the image material shows the same person or different people. Once both examiners have completed their examination, the results are compared and a joint assessment and conclusion is made. 

The systematic approach and use of the blind process in the expanded facial comparison is extensive and the comparison often takes several days to complete. The results of an expanded facial comparison will subsequently be sent to the requesting authority as an advisory statement.

The possibility of conducting a facial comparison will depend on the quality of the image, including the lighting in the photo, the angle of the face in relation to the camera, and the age difference between the images.