Facial comparison

(not available in english)

A stranger pushes a person in front of an oncoming train: a crime scene without classic evidence. No fingerprints, no DNA – but a surveillance camera has recorded images of the perpetrator, which makes the facial image the most important clue. A new method, facial comparison, complements existing biometric techniques and plays a particularly important role when investigating crimes such as paedophile offences or ATM bombings, where images are often the only lead.

The automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS) operated by fedpol is not only being updated, it will also be expanded to include a module for facial comparison. This works in a similar way to fingerprint matching: facial images of people found at crime scenes are compared with facial images of known persons stored in the database. Algorithms are used that can also make adjustments for difficulties such as blurring or unfavourable angles.

Any matches the system finds are subsequently checked manually by facial comparison experts at fedpol. This type of cooperation between humans and machines, which has been well established through its use in fingerprint examination, ensures maximum accuracy and quality.

Facial comparison is carried out exclusively on the basis of the images stored in the AFIS from police investigations; photos from social networks or ID cards may not be used. In addition, facial comparison is carried out on a case-by-case basis after an offence has been committed. Monitoring people automatically in real time, for example by using cameras in public places, is not permitted.

The AFIS2026 project is leading Swiss investigative work into a new era – making full use of cutting-edge technology to deliver reliable results in line with data protection requirements. More information about the AFIS2026 project is available here (PDF, 184 kB, 10.03.2025).