Tuesday, February 6, 2007

What are Biometrics



Biometrics is the practice of using automated methods in order to recognize a person through that person's behavioral or physiological characteristics. In order to accomplish this, biometrics focuses on several specific features. These features include the person's:

  • Face
  • Fingerprints
  • Hand geometry
  • Handwriting
  • Iris
  • Retina
  • Typing patterns
  • Vein
  • Voice
  • Walking gait

  • Although some of these characteristics are primarily behavioral and others are primarily physiological, there is a crossover with each of these traits. All behavioral traits contain some physiological components. Likewise, all physical characteristics are influenced by behavioral traits.

    The practice of biometrics makes it possible for businesses and organizations to maintain a higher level of security through personal identification and verification. This higher level of security is becoming increasingly important as technological advances have made thieves and other criminals even more difficult to stop.