BIOMETRIC SYSTEMS
What does Biometric System mean?
A biometric system is a technological system that uses information about a person (or
other biological organism) to identify that person. Biometric systems rely on specific
data about unique biological traits in order to work effectively. A biometric system will
involve running data through algorithms for a particular result, usually related to a
positive identification of a user or other individual.
Types of Biometrics
DNA Matching. The identification of an individual using the analysis of segments from DNA. ...
Eyes - Iris Recognition. The use of the features found in the iris to identify an individual. ...
Face Recognition. ...
Finger Geometry Recognition. ...
Hand Geometry Recognition. ...
Typing Recognition. ...
Voice - Speaker Identification.
Techopedia explains Biometric System
The specific nature of today’s biometric systems is associated with a specific use of the term
"biometrics." In general, biometrics is any use of biological data in technology. Biometric
systems focusing exclusively on the identification of humans have become the major kind of
biometric system in today’s IT world.
Uses of Biometrics Across the Globe:
1)Airport Security
Making the journey through airport terminals more seamless for passengers is a
goal shared by airports around the world. Biometric technology to verify passenger
identities has been used in several large international airports for a number of years
and the technology is quickly spreading to other locations across the globe.
2)Time and Attendance
Workforce management is another field where the use of biometrics is on the rise.
Fraudulent employee time and attendance activities are a common phenomenon in
organizations throughout the world. According to an American Payroll Association
study, the average employee reportedly steals approximately 4 and a half hours per
week, which is equivalent to 6 weeks’ vacation if extrapolated over a year. To solve
this issue, companies are implementing biometric time clocks on their work sites.
3)Law Enforcement
Organizations like the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Interpol have been
using biometrics in criminal investigations for years. Today, biometrics is widely
used by law enforcement agencies across the world for the identification of
criminals. In 2008, the Chinese Police adopted an ABIS solution to allow forensic
fingerprint examiners the ability to cross check inmate identities for possible
matches within the database.
4)Access Control & Single Sign On (SSO)
The primary reason behind more and more organizations and personnel across the
globe adopting biometric technology for access control and Single Sign On (SSO) is
because traditional authentication tactics like passwords are insufficient for
personal identification. Passwords only provide evidence or proof of knowledge
whereas biometrics provides unique advantages because it relies on identifying
someone by “who they are” compared to “what you know “or “what you have.”
Today, biometrics is widely used around the world for home access
control, mobile phone access, vehicle access authentication and Single Sign
On (SSO).
5)Banking – Transaction Authentication
Biometrics in banking has increased a great deal in the last few years and is being
implemented by banks throughout the world. As global financial entities become
more digitally-based, banks are implementing biometric technology to improve
customer and employee identity management in an effort to combat fraud, increase
transaction security, and enhance customer convenience. Customers are also fed-
up with identity theft and the inconveniences associated with constantly having to
prove their identities. As a result, more and more customers are looking for
banks that have biometric authentication in place prompting banks to more closely
research the technology for implementation.
EXAMPLES OF BIOMETRICS:
Examples include, but are not limited to fingerprint, palm veins, face recognition, DNA, palm
print, hand geometry, iris recognition, retina and odour/scent. Behavioral characteristics are
related to the pattern of behavior of a person, including but not limited to typing rhythm, gait, and
voice.
Advantages of Biometric Security Systems
Accurate Identification and Accountability. Biometric systems provide more accurate
identification, lowering your risk of unwanted breaches. ...
Efficient. Incorporating biometrics into your commercial security will save you time and money.
...
Convenient and Versatile. ...
Scalable. ...
Profitable.
