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JP Morgan Chase has told personnel moving into its new main office in Manhattan that they must share their physical characteristics to enter the high-value building.

Change from Optional to Required

The banking corporation had initially planned for the enrollment of employee biometrics at its Manhattan skyscraper to be optional.

Yet, workers of the leading financial institution who have started operations at the new headquarters since last month have been sent emails stating that biometric entry was now "required".

The Technology Behind Entry

Biometric access requires employees to submit their hand geometry to gain access access portals in the main floor instead of scanning their ID badges.

Office Complex Information

The bank's headquarters, which apparently cost three billion dollars to build, will in time serve as a home for thousands of employees once it is entirely staffed in the coming months.

Security Rationale

JP Morgan opted not to respond but it is believed that the implementation of physical identifiers for access is intended to make the building better protected.

Special Cases

There are exemptions for certain staff members who will retain the ability to use a traditional pass for access, although the criteria for who will use more traditional ID access remains undefined.

Additional Technological Features

Complementing the deployment of physical identifier systems, the company has also launched the "JPMC Work" mobile app, which serves as a electronic pass and portal for worker amenities.

The application permits users to handle external entry, use indoor maps of the facility and pre-order food from the premises' 19 restaurant options.

Security Context

The deployment of enhanced security measures comes as US corporations, especially those with substantial activities in New York, look to increase security following the shooting of the chief executive of one of the biggest American insurance companies in July.

The CEO, the leader of UnitedHealthcare, was killed in the incident not far from the financial district.

Potential Wider Implementation

It is unclear if the banking institution intends to implement the biometric system for employees at its locations in other major financial centres, such as the British financial district.

Broader Workplace Monitoring Trends

The move comes amid debate over the implementation of technology to track workers by their organizations, including observing office attendance levels.

Earlier this year, all staff members on hybrid work schedules were told they have to report to the physical location full-time.

Leadership Viewpoint

The organization's head, Jamie Dimon, has characterized the bank's recently opened tower as a "beautiful physical manifestation" of the company.

The banker, one of the world's most powerful bankers, lately warned that the chance of the US stock market crashing was far greater than many financiers anticipated.