Identification of Unknown Dead Bodies: Integrating AI and Forensic Biometrics in Facial Recognition, Fingerprint Databases, Forensic Odontology, and DNA Profiling

Abstract

The identification of unknown dead bodies is a pivotal process in forensic medicine, with implications for law enforcement, public health, disaster victim management, and human rights. Conventionally, biometric techniques such as facial recognition, fingerprinting, Forensic odontology, and DNA profiling have been used to establish identity. However, these methods can face significant limitations, especially in cases involving decomposition, mutilation, or a lack of comparative data. The recent integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with forensic biometrics has dramatically enhanced the accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of identification processes. AI algorithms can analyse massive datasets, learn from patterns, and assist in automated decision-making, offering superior performance over traditional manual techniques. This review explores the synergy between AI and key forensic modalities, examines their real-world applications, highlights the challenges in implementation, and considers future directions for a comprehensive and ethically sound Forensic identification framework.