DBIDS scanners add another layer of protection Published June 4, 2014 By Kimberly Woodruff Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE,Okla. -- As you travel in and out of Tinker's gates, you've probably noticed the gate guards using a scanning device to verify an ID card. "There have been a lot of questions following backed up traffic, and we want everyone to know that the scanners are another security measure to protect everyone on Tinker," said Capt. Daniel Land, 72nd Air Base Wing Security Forces Operations Officer. "We're not trying to be difficult or cause unnecessary inconvenience to anyone." The scanners are part of the Defense Biometrics Identification System, an enhanced security system used to monitor entry control points throughout the Department of Defense. Dallas Stroud, 72nd Security Forces Squadron, said the scanner, much like that used in grocery stores, scans the barcode on the ID card and relays information such as the person's photo, address, height and weight, and whether or not the ID card is valid for entry to the installation. "One thing that is also helpful is that the DBIDS system can let the gate guard know if that person has a suspended license or is barred from the installation for whatever reason," said Mr. Stroud. Because the system is DOD-wide, said Mr. Stroud, if a person does something illegal at base X and then tries to come to Tinker, the status will show here and that person will be denied installation access until they are cleared through the installation commander. "Recently, an employee here at Tinker was scanned and this person had a warrant from another state for something minor, but for that person to have base access, it had to be cleared through the installation commander before they were able to return to work," Captain Land said. "Eventually, DBIDS will check for any active warrant issued and entered into the National Crime Information Center," said Mr. Stroud. It is important to note that no date has been set as to when that feature will be up, but it has the capability of doing it and it is coming, he said. If Security Forces officials find someone with an outstanding warrant, they will deny the person installation access. If the person is an active duty military member, they will be apprehended and civilian personnel will be detained, until outside authorities arrive, said Captain Land. "We aren't here to determine if someone can be hired or continue to work on the base, we are simply scanning to verify an individual's suitability to access the base in accordance with the DOD, Air Force and local guidelines," said Mr. Stroud. Captain Land said DBIDS scanning is run randomly. If a card hasn't been scanned for at least 30 days, it could take 15 seconds for DBIDS to obtain the information needed to validate, he said. Therefore, next time there is a traffic holdup to get in the gate, just breathe and be mindful that Security Forces is working to ensure a safe community and workplace here at Tinker.