The following advice has been provided for the cleaning and sanitizing of Idemia (Sagem/Morpho) biometric fingerprint readers. A similar approach can be used for most other brands as well.

First, please note that it is NOT necessary to unplug the device to clean it.

• Thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based rub or wash with soap and water BEFORE and AFTER cleaning the biometric device.
• Always use a new pair of gloves when cleaning the device, and immediately dispose of the gloves once finished.
• Regularly clean and disinfect the fingerprint sensor, especially after someone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms touches the device.

From the US Environmental Protection Agency list[2] of disinfectants for use against the Coronavirus, IDEMIA recommends either:
Windex® Multi-Surface Disinfectant or another similar product containing L-Lactic acid; or
Hydrogen peroxide : apply the disinfectant to a non-abrasive wipe.

IDEMIA recommends either:
Economizer® Wipers; or 3M Scotch-Brite® High Performance Cloth
Wipe the device surface and leave the surface wet with disinfectant for at
least 5 minutes.

Important!

• Do not apply products containing bleach to the fingerprint sensor. This may
  permanently damage and affect the performance of the device
• Do not use abrasive cloths or wipes (e.g., paper towels)
• Do not spray liquid directly onto the sensor. Always spray cleaning solution onto a
  non-abrasive cloth, and then use it to wipe the sensor.

Other manufacturers suggest spraying a light coating of sanitizer on the readers and leaving it to dry for a few minutes. It is important that you do not put so much on, that liquid actually runs into the device.