The e-passport contains a high resolution facial image, as mentioned before, which can be displayed on the border officials screen in a much larger size. This definitely aids in the detection of "look-alikes". If a facial recognition system is used, there is probably even more chance of the criminal being detected. And if the e-passport contains a fingerprint or iris pattern, then, if this is used at the border, the "look-alike" will definitely be detected.

The automated immigration line at Sydney airport, Smartgate, has facial recognition software which matches the facial image in the e-passport with the owner's face. If a perfect match is not obtained then he or she is referred to a Customs officer for manual processing. Smartgate also authenticates the data in the e-passport by checking the digital signature to make sure there has been no tampering of the facial image or the personal details.

See also, If the chip is cloned and the passport faked, will it easily pass muster? and What makes an e-passport hard to counterfeit?