Biometrics

Biometrics is the science and technology of measuring and analyzing biological data. In information technology, this typically refers to technologies used to measure and analyze human body characteristics such as facial patterns, fingerprints, retinas, irises, voice patterns, and hand measurement. Biometrics has become a useful tool for criminal justice practitioners and for businesses that increasingly use it to market their products and to surveil consumers. Biometric technology is also increasingly being used by individuals to provide personal security as well as to protect their private information online.

This entry begins with an overview of the history of biometrics and then discusses the use of biometrics specifically for security. The entry concludes with an examination of the challenges and privacy concerns associated with the use of biometrics.