A passport is a crucial document for an individual. Since it contains critical information about a person, authorities and organizations must choose a high accuracy scanner that provides top-grade security features. A passport has a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) that contains the individual’s data. Hence, a passport scanner is also called an MRZ scanner. Speed and accuracy are two of the essential requisites you need to consider while choosing an MRZ reader.
There are other features that you must consider before purchasing an MRZ passport reader for your organization. To make it easier for you, we will be listing all critical features in this blog and some frequently asked questions about an MRZ scanner.
Features to Look for in an MRZ Scanner
With so many options available online, how would you choose an ideal MRZ scanner for your business? While it may get a little challenging, your search can become a lot easier by considering the below-mentioned features. Take a look.
Commercial-grade Speed and Efficiency:
Thousands of passports have to be scanned every day at an airport. Hence, a high-speed MRZ reader becomes extremely important. Look for an MRZ scanner that scans passports real quick. It should support batch processing and discard blurred image frames to accelerate the process further.
High Accuracy:
Opt for an MRZ passport reader that uses traditional image processing techniques and neural networks to deliver the best results. It should be able to check the accuracy of each MRZ character on the passport.
Robust Security and Reliability:
As stated above, passports contain critical data of a person. Hence, it becomes the organization’s responsibility to check whether the MRZ scanner they are choosing goes in line with the security regulations. See whether the reader offers on-premise data processing. It is best to partner with an ISO-certified organization. Also, it should be GDPR and HIPAA compliant.
Strong Image-Preprocessing Algorithms:
The MRZ reader you choose should be intelligent enough to detect the borders of the passports and then run a perspective correction.
Responsive Customer Support:
No matter how good an app is, technical problems are inevitable. So, make sure the app provider that you are going to choose offers responsive customer support. All your queries should be resolved, and you should be given proper training to use the solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about MRZ and MRZ Reader
Some questions are frequently asked about MRZ and MRZ passport readers. The most common ones are listed below.
- Does any other type of document contain MRZ? Apart from passports, MRZ is also present on Visas, ID Cards, and Driving Licenses.
- What information does MRZ contain? The type of data MRZ encrypts ranges from a person’s full name to the passport expiration date. Other data include nationality, sex, date of birth, passport number, issuing country, and various other optional data elements.
- Is every MRZ scanner GDPR and CCPA compliant? Every MRZ passport scanner isn’t GDPR and CCPA compliant. Hence, you’ll have to do your research well to keep the users’ data safe and secure.
So, that was all about the crucial features and frequently asked questions about MRZ readers. Just like other software and apps, your search for the most suitable MRZ scanner is going to be a little challenging, but the pointers mentioned above will help you for sure. Also, do try every solution before making a decision. Most leading brands offer free trials to let you test and try their products.
