What are Biometrics

Biometrics are essentially unique biological characteristics that can be used to identify individuals. These characteristics can be physical or behavioural. There are two main applications of biometrics:

  • Identification: This is where a person is recognized based on their biometric data, and matched against a database of known individuals. For example, facial recognition software used for security purposes is a form of identification biometrics.
  • Authentication: This is where a person verifies their claimed identity using a biometric scan. For example, unlocking your phone with your fingerprint is a form of authentication biometrics.
  •  

    • Fingerprints

    • Facial recognition

    • Iris scans

    • Retinal scans

  •  

    • Security systems

    • Computer logins

    • Smartphones

    • Border control

    Biometrics in password security is a different approach to verifying your identity compared to traditional passwords. Instead of relying on something you know (a password), biometrics uses something you are (like your fingerprint) or something you do (like your iris scan) to confirm it's you.

  •  

    • How it works: Biometric systems use scanners to capture your unique physical attributes, such as fingerprints, facial features, or even your iris. This information is then stored in a secure format and used to verify your identity when you try to access something.

    • Benefits: Biometrics can be more secure than passwords because they are harder to forge or steal. You can't forget your fingerprint or iris; unlike a password you might write down.

    • Drawbacks: Biometric data is sensitive, and there are concerns about how it's stored and secured. Also, biometric scanners can sometimes malfunction, and some people might not be comfortable with the idea of their biological data being stored.

    Like any technology, there are some privacy concerns around the use of biometrics. Since biometric data is unique to each person, there are worries about how this data is stored and secured. Overall, biometrics can be a powerful tool for security, but it's often used alongside passwords or other verification methods for maximum protection