| Cover | Sep. 07, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | IMAGEWARE SYSTEMS, INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000941685 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 7, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-15757 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0224167 |
| Entity Address Address Line 1 | 11440 W. Bernardo Court |
| Entity Address Address Line 2 | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address City Or Town | San Diego |
| Entity Address State Or Province | CA |
| Entity Address Postal Zip Code | 92127 |
| City Area Code | 858 |
| Local Phone Number | 673-8600 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
