How is 'Biometrics' Defined?

Because biometrics can be used in such a variety of applications, it is very difficult to establish an all-encompassing definition. The most suitable definition of biometrics is:

The automated use of physiological or behavioral characteristics to determine or verify identity.

To elaborate on this definition, physiological biometrics are based on measurements and data derived from direct measurement of a part of the human body. Fingerprint, iris recognition, hand geometry, and facial recognition are leading physiological biometrics.

Behavioral characteristics are based on an action taken by a person. Behavioral biometrics, in turn, are based on measurements and data derived from an action, and indirectly measure characteristics of the human body. Voice verification, keystroke dynamics, and signature verification are leading behavioral biometric technologies. One of the defining characteristics of a behavioral biometric is the incorporation of time as a metric - the measured behavior has a beginning, middle and end.

 

Login to access full report Not Registered? Email Password   Forgot your password? By clicking on Login, I agree to the terms and conditions of usage

For more information, check out  IBG's Biometrics Market and Industry Report 2006-2010, the industry's most comprehensive, extensive and authoritative analysis of biometric technologies, applications, and global markets. The Report provides critical market data and real-world guidance to biometric technology deployers, developers, investors, and researchers.