International fingerprint database sharing has improved.

The delay between Bourdin’s arrival in San Antonio and Interpol’s confirmation of his identity reflected the limitations of 1997 database access.

Current systems are faster and more comprehensive.

The role of trained investigators — as distinct from social workers and family advocates — in verifying identity claims has been more clearly defined.

The social service orientation of the system that initially received Bourdin was not designed for skeptical verification; the subsequent development of clearer protocols reflects an understanding that verification requires a different orientation than support.

These improvements do not make the systems foolproof.