Why are my fingerprints appearing really dark?

Overview

Dark fingerprints can appear from too much pressure on the fingerprint pad, too much moisture in the fingerprints, or a dirty scanner. This will appear very dark with poor contrast throughout the print, with some areas having poor ridge detail and others having slightly better ridge detail. This can be resolved by wiping off the fingers with paper towels, alcohol, washing the hands with just cold water, and cleaning off the scanner with water and a microfiber cloth. 

Dark Fingerprints

• Poor ridge detail with areas of slightly better ridge detail

• Full print visible

• Dark with poor contrast throughout most of print

• Usually scored with a yellow or red rating above the captured fingerprint

Example: 

Potential Causes and Solutions: 

Fingers Too Moist

1. Dry the fingers with a paper towel

2. Dry the fingers with alcohol

3. Wash the fingers in cold water with no soap

4. Ensure the fingers are completely dry after wetting them with water or alcohol

5. Mark as Worn if necessary

 

In very rare cases a candidate may have hyperhidrosis. This causes excessive sweating in the fingers and, at times, may prevent digital fingerprint capture.

The only resolution to this issue is redirecting to a hard card.

Dirty Scanner

1. Clean the scanner with water and a microfiber cloth

2. If the above isn’t possible, gently clean with a damp paper towel

3. Ensure the scanner is completely dry after cleaning - prints may still appear dark on a clean scanner if it’s wet

Never use any alcohol-based or otherwise unapproved cleaning product on the scanner. These can be harmful and may damage the scanner.

For more information on cleaning fingerprint scanners, please refer to the official cleaning recommendations from the scanner manufacturer.

Too Much Pressure Applied

1. Decrease the amount of pressure applied to the scanner

If the above suggestions do not improve fingerprint quality, please utilize the chat option on our website to speak to one of our identity experts. We will be able to remotely connect to the fingerprinting kiosk and walk you through further options to submit your fingerprints.