As part of ongoing campus security enhancements the University of Kentucky is piloting a new new biometric access system in Woodland Glen IV. This FAQ section explains how it works, privacy protections, participation details, and what students can expect during enrollment. Our goal is to ensure residents feel informed, comfortable, and confident throughout the pilot process.
Biometric Access
What is the Woodland Glen IV biometric access pilot?
The University of Kentucky is piloting a new biometric access system in Woodland Glen IV as part of ongoing campus security enhancements. The pilot is being conducted in partnership with the University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) to evaluate how this technology may improve building access safety and convenience.
What does “biometric access” mean?
Biometric access uses unique physical characteristics — such as facial features — to verify identity and grant entry to a secure space. This system allows residents to access the building without needing to swipe a card or use a phone.
Why was Woodland Glen IV selected for this pilot?
WG4 was selected because of its layout, entry patterns and ability to support accurate testing of the system in a residential environment. The pilot will help the university better understand how this technology performs in real-world campus housing settings.
Is this system replacing my Wildcard ID or mobile ID?
No. Your physical Wildcard and/or mobile ID will continue to work as it does today. The biometric system is an additional option being tested and does not eliminate existing access methods. Wildcard ID is still required for front desk authorization and entry to individual rooms.
Is participation required?
No. Participation in the facial recognition access control is completely voluntary. Students will receive more information during the enrollment phase and can choose whether to participate.
When will students be asked to enroll?
Students will receive an enrollment email in January. This email will include personalized registration information and instructions.
Who will the enrollment email come from?
Enrollment emails will come from our technology partner, Alcatraz.ai (email: noreply@alcatraz.ai). This email is an official invitation prompted by UK.
What information is collected?
The system collects biometric data only for the purpose of verifying access to the building. This data is used solely for the pilot and in accordance with university policies and applicable privacy standards. Additional details about data use and retention will be shared during enrollment.
How is my privacy protected?
Protecting student privacy is a top priority. The pilot follows university guidelines and security standards for data protection. Biometric data is not used for tracking student movement or behavior beyond building entry access.
Will this system monitor where I go or how long I stay?
No. The system is designed only to verify access at designated entry points. It does not track student locations, movement patterns, or time spent in the building.
What happens if the system doesn’t recognize me?
If the system does not recognize you, you will still be able to access the building using existing methods, such as your Wildcard ID or mobile ID.
Will UKPD be monitoring this system?
UKPD is partnering on the pilot to evaluate safety and security impacts, but the system is not used to monitor individual students.
Who can I contact with questions?
If you have questions as enrollment begins, please reach out to your Resident Advisor or email reslife@uky.edu.