Abstract
Fingerprint analysis is an efficient method of human individualization that aims to identify individuals through anatomical particularities of friction ridge. The steps that make up the technical-scientific work of forensic fingerprint analysis range from the revelation of fingerprints at crime scenes to subsequent confrontation with the standard print of possible suspects provided by the police investigation or the search in automated databases, such as AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Investigation System). The latent print development stage is characterized as the most important in the entire process, considering that a good development implies more chances of success in the later stages. Currently, various processing methods are employed at Criminalistics Institutes. The choice of which procedure to use depends on numerous factors, such as the color, material, texture and direction of the surface of interest.
Keywords: Forensic Fingerprint Analysis; Processing Methods; Friction Ridge; AFIS.