Abandoned Afghan Biometric Database Poses Severe Risks to Citizens
A US-funded biometric database containing extremely detailed records of half a million Afghan personnel falls into Taliban hands. This system collects 40 specific data points per person and lacks any deletion or data retention policies.
As the Taliban takes control of Afghanistan, a massive US-funded biometric database known as APPS poses a severe threat to millions of citizens. While initial fears focus on captured handheld biometric devices, experts reveal that the true danger lies in the centralized Afghan Personnel and Pay System. This system holds incredibly detailed records on approximately half a million members of the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police.
The APPS database collects an astonishing 40 distinct data points per individual, going far beyond basic identification. It includes iris scans, fingerprints, and facial images, as well as highly personal details like family connections and even a person's favorite fruit. Originally designed in 2016 to eliminate payroll fraud and the problem of fake "ghost soldiers," the system now serves as a comprehensive map of security personnel and their extended social networks.
The most alarming aspect of this situation is the complete absence of data protection protocols or contingency plans. Information enters the database on the day a person enlists and remains there forever, as the system lacks any deletion or data retention policies. Even as the Taliban takes over, there is no mechanism in place to wipe or secure this deeply sensitive information, leaving countless Afghans vulnerable to identification and potential reprisal.