Footprinting is a system of identification similar to fingerprinting. Footprints are the impressions made by ridges on the soles of the feet. Like fingerprints, footprints remain unchanged throughout a person’s lifetime. No individual’s footprints have been found to be identical to those of another person. Footprints found at the scene of a crime may help identify suspects, especially in hot areas of the world where people often go barefoot. Footprints also provide a means of identification when fingerprints cannot be obtained because of severe burns or other injuries. Many hospitals footprint newborn infants for identification shortly after birth and keep the prints on file for future reference. See also Fingerprinting.
