Would You Submit Biometric Data to Join a Gym?

An anonymous reader asks: "I went to my gym (Rocky River, OH branch) yesterday and there was a huge line of people at the counter. When I went to the scanner to swipe my membership card, I noticed they were training people in the use of their new security system that requires the input of your thumb print. There currently a story on boingboing that mentions a tanning salon in Arkansas that is enacting a similar policy. I'm going to call the gym later today and see what type of security they have on their network. I guess we can look forward to a future where these sorts of personal services clubs require the submission of biometric data. I was wondering how the members here at Slashdot feel about the security risks involved in submitting biometric data to small private companies?"

No. Thank. You.

[nb caffeine]

I wouldnt be a member of that gym for much longer (or, any gym, really). I wonder if i can copywright my fingerprints, and then charge royalties for anyone who requires a print? that would be sweeet.

Not feet

[AndroidCat]

If they want your thumb, give them a finger.

I'd like to tell you ...

[cybermage]

but you'll have to press your thumb in the box below to read my response.

I..........I
I..........I
I..........I
I..... .....I
I..........I

Your unquestioning compliance in this matter would be greatly appreciated.*

Thank You,

The Management

* By supplying your thumb print, you agree to abide by our Terms of Service. You may request a copy of the Terms of Service directly from our Corporate Headquarters.

Re:Not feet

[Anonymous Coward]

Which on--- OH.

but... but...

[Anonymous Coward]

I'm handless, you insensitive clod!

Re:theft of my fingerprint?

[PaxTech]

I'm fearful regarding theft of my finger!

Well, if it goes missing, you can just check all of your local Wendy's franchises. It seems all missing fingers end up in a bowl of chili eventually.

Mmm.. chili. It's finger lickin' good!

Re:How secure is their security?

[anthony_dipierro]

It's already been done. There was even a Slashdot article on it. The guy took an computer image and make a mold and use gelatin. Then he put the gelatin on his thumb and fooled almost every finger print device he could find. He could also eat the gelatin off if someone got suspicious.

So why not make a fake gelatin thumb when you sign up? Surely you can find a thumbprint image somewhere on the internet. Then the gym won't have your thumbprint, they'll have the fake one.