DNA-Proofed Documents To Arrive ‘By 2006’

The commercial launch of the first ever fool-proof document security system is planned for 2006, reports Marina Murphy in Chemistry & Industry magazine. The system, which uses DNA fingerprinting, will allow documents to be authenticated with an accuracy of billions to one against duplication, according to the Australian scientists working on the system.

The scientists plan to use human DNA in documents such as government bonds, securities, bearer bonds, shares and wills for authentication of documents and verification of document trials.

‘If techniques work out and are generally adopted, this could revolutionise transfer of documents and have a major impact on decreasing money laundering and fraud,’ said researcher Ian Findlay of Gribbles Molecular Science, Brisbane, Australia. DNA fingerprinting would be used to provide proof of a document’s origin and proof of delivery.

A UK police forensic science specialist points out, however, that an accuracy of billions to one is not appropriate when dealing with close relatives, who are, after all, most likely to contest documents like wills.

Chemistry & Industry magazine from SCI delivers news and comment from the interface between science and business. As well as covering industry and science, it focuses on developments that will be of significant commercial interest in five- to ten-years time. Published twice-monthly and free to SCI members, it also carries authoritative features and reviews. Opinion-formers worldwide respect Chemistry & Industry for its independent insight.

SCI is a unique international forum where science meets business on independent, impartial ground. Anyone can join, and the Society offers a chance to share information between sectors as diverse as food and agriculture, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science and safety. As well as publishing new research and running events, SCI has a growing database of member specialists who can give background information on a wide range of scientific issues.

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