ImageWare Systems

About ImageWare Systems

Founded in 1987, ImageWare Systems started with a focus on imaging technology. The company initially built a digital booking platform for law enforcement, creating a niche in managing criminal history records and biometric data like fingerprints and images. Over the years, it evolved into a significant player in the multimodal biometrics field, managing millions of identities for government and public safety agencies. The company went public and its stock traded on the OTC marketplace under the symbol IWSY. A key part of its journey involved strategic acquisitions to broaden its product line, such as purchasing Imaging Technology Corp. to expand into secure identification cards for applications like driver's licenses and passports. As technology shifted, ImageWare adapted by developing mobile and cloud-based identity management solutions, offering multi-factor biometric authentication through its GoVerifyID suite. Despite its long history and technological foundation, the company faced challenges. In early 2020, Kristin Taylor was appointed CEO to drive growth and transform the business. This led to a period of rebuilding the product portfolio and exploring strategic alternatives to increase shareholder value. The final chapter for ImageWare as an independent entity came in January 2023, when all its assets, including its technology and patents, were acquired by the Swiss biometrics innovator TECH5. The acquisition marked the end of ImageWare's 36-year run, merging its legacy with TECH5's goal of expanding its presence in the North American market.