Another difference between lifting fingerprints and lifting DNA is that the genetic markings can be studied to give further insight into the person - for exampl

Another difference between lifting fingerprints and lifting DNA is that the genetic markings can be studied to give further insight into the person - for example medical, removing more of their privacy, which without probable cause, is in breach of the 4th amendment. A fingerprint however, if found in public and considered fair game tells you one thing - that you were there, or someone reasonably competent in lifting and transferring fingerprints has a copy of your fingerprint and is attempting to put you in the spotlight. It doesn't tell the discoverer of your print anything further about you.