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biometrics Last modified: Tuesday, April 01, 2008
(bī´´ō-met´riks) (n.) Generally, the study of measurable biological characteristics. In computer security, biometrics refers to authentication techniques that rely on measurable physical characteristics that can be automatically checked. There are several types of biometric identification schemes: face: the analysis of facial characteristics fingerprint: the analysis of an individual’s unique fingerprints hand geometry: the analysis of the shape of the hand and the length of the fingers retina: the analysis of the capillary vessels located at the back of the eye iris: the analysis of the colored ring that surrounds the eye’s pupil signature: the analysis of the way a person signs his name. vein: the analysis of pattern of veins in the back if the hand and the wrist voice: the analysis of the tone, pitch, cadence and frequency of a person’s voice. Though the field is still in its infancy, many people believe that biometrics will play a critical role in future computers, and especially in electronic commerce. Personal computers of the future might include a fingerprint scanner where you could place your index finger. The computer would analyze your fingerprint to determine who you are and, based on your identity, authorize you different levels of access. Access levels could include the ability to use credit card information to make electronic purchases. See "Defend Yourself Against Identity Theft" in the "Did You Know..." section of Webopedia. See also "How Biometrics Security Works" in the "Did You Know..." section of Webopedia. Also see "How Fingerprint Scanners Work" in the ""Did You Know..." section of Webopedia.
Biometric Consortium  Extensive collection of information pertaining to the research, development, testing, evaulation, and application of biometric-based personal identification/verification technology. The Biometric Consortium serves as the U.S. Government's focal point for this technology. Biometrics in the Digital Realm  A November 2001 article from eCommerce Guide. Biometrics Catalog A U.S. Government-sponsored database of information about biometric technologies including research and evaluation reports, news articles, vendors and consultants, government documents and legislative text. DRM Watch Analysis of digital rights management technology. Inside ID Home Page News and information for identity management specialists. Webopedia's "Did You Know...?" Section Use this Webopedia knowledge section for an in-depth overview of specific technologies and occurrences in the areas of Computer Science, The Internet, and Computer Hardware and Software.	Related Categories Biometrics Digital Rights Management (DRM) Electronic Commerce Security Related Terms AFIS AIDC authentication biometric engine capture comparison electronic commerce enrollment extraction false acceptance false rejection identification matching MEMS reference template security UDDI Vein ID System verification