Automated border control: Problem formalization

Abstract

This paper introduces a formalization of the Automated Border Control (ABC) machines deployed worldwide as part of the eBorder infrastructure for automated traveller clearance. Proposed formalization includes classification of the eBorder technologies, definition of the basic components of the ABC machines, identification of their key properties, establishment of metrics for their evaluation and comparison, as well as development of a dedicated architecture based on the assistant-based concept. Specifically, three generations of the ABC machines are identified: Gen-1 ABC machines which are biometric enabled kiosks, such as Canada's NEXUS or UK IRIS, to process low-risk pre-enrolled travellers; Gen-2 ABC machines which are eGate systems to serve travellers with biometric eID / ePassports; and Gen-3 ABC machines that will be working to support the eBorder process of the future. These ABC machines are compared in this paper based on certain criteria, such as availability of the dedicated architectural components, and in terms of the life-cycle performance metrics. This paper addresses the related problems of deployment and evaluation of the ABC technologies and machines, including the vulnerability analysis and strategic planning of the eBorder infrastructure.