Biometrics is the measurement of body parts (physiological) or actions (behavioural) to identify a person and can be used for both identification (one to many or 1:N matching) or verification (one to one or 1:1 matching).

Body parts can include a fingerprint, finger veins, an iris, the retina, DNA, hand (palm), or face measurements. Actions or behavioural biometrics can include a person’s gait (walking style), voice, signature or keystrokes.

Biometric devices always use a computerised matching algorithm and system.

Why biometrics?

Biometric technology offers the most accurate and reliable form of identification known to man. Unlike traditional forms of identification, such as passwords, PINs and ID cards, the biological entities used for biometrics cannot be passed around, stolen or lost. That means only the right people access secure areas, controlled substances or critical assets at any time.

Accurate identification reduces exposure to the risk of terrorism and fraud, while taking care of every day concerns, such as buddy punching and personal safety.

Where biometrics replaces other forms of ID, organisations can eliminate the costs of replacing and updating ID cards altogether.

To find out more about how biometrics are used in organisations today, please read our whitepaper