About Biometrics

Biometric verification is an automated method whereby an individuals identity is confirmed by examining a unique physiological trait or behavioral characteristic, such as a fingerprint, retina, or signature. Physiological traits are stable physical characteristics, such as palm prints and iris patterns. This type of measurement is essentially unalterable. A behavioral characteristic - such as one's signature, voice, or keystroke dynamics - is influenced by both controllable actions and less controllable psychological factors. Because behavioral characteristics can change over time, the enrolled biometric reference template must be updated each time it is used. Although behavior-based biometrics can be less expensive and less threatening to users, physiological traits tend to offer greater accuracy and security. In any case, both techniques provide a significantly higher level of identification than passwords or cards alone.

Because biometric traits are unique to each individual, they can be used to prevent theft or fraud.  Unlike a password or personal identification number (PIN), a biometric trait cannot be forgotten, lost, or stolen. Today there are over 10,000 computer rooms, vaults, research labs, day care centers, blood banks, ATMs and military installations to which access is controlled using devices that scan an individual's unique physiological or behavioral characteristics.

Biometric identifiers currently available or under development include fingerprint, body odor, DNA, ear shape, face recognition, facial thermogram, keystroke dynamics, palm print, retinal scan, iris pattern, signature, and voice pattern.

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