Biometrics

What is meant by Biometrics?

Biometrics refers to the application of measurements and statistical analysis techniques to biological or physiological characteristics of living organisms. Typically, biometrics is used in relation to human characteristics to recognize or verify identity. Biometric traits are unique and can be used to authenticate or identify individuals.

Biometric features:

• Fingerprints: The analysis of the unique patterns of lines and grooves on fingertips.
• Facial recognition: The identification of individuals based on their facial features and characteristics.
• Iris or retina scan: The analysis of unique features in the iris or retina of the eye.
• Voice analysis: The analysis of speech characteristics, such as pitch and speech patterns.
• Hand geometry: The analysis of the size and shape of hands and the position of fingers.
• DNA analysis: The study of the genetic code for unique identification.
• Palmprint: The analysis of lines and features on the palm of the hand.

The use of biometrics is primarily for identity verification and authentication. Compared to traditional methods such as passwords or access cards, biometric features offer the advantage that they are more difficult to forge or steal as they are firmly anchored in the physical structure of the individual.

Biometrics are used in various areas, including

    Access control: authentication and access authorization in security-critical areas.
    Mobile devices: Biometric features such as fingerprint or facial recognition are used to unlock smartphones and tablets.
    Airport and border controls: Identity verification at airports and border crossings.
    Finance: Authentication to access bank accounts and conduct transactions.
    Healthcare: Patient identification and ensuring access to medical records.
    Personnel management: Recording the presence of employees and access control at the workplace.