Biometrics Explained
What are biometric security measures?
Biometrics are the measurable factors related to human characteristics. Using unique physiological reference points to identify an individual such as fingerprints, DNA or the iris. The identifiable characteristic data is mostly associated with security because biometric traits provide a higher, more secure level of authentication, where special characteristics are unique to the individual. An attractive quality in high-level security environments.
Why use biometric security?
– Advantages of biometrics
Identification using biometric characteristics is preferred over traditional passwords and PIN-based methods for various reasons, for example, a person is required to be physically present at the time of identification, preventing ‘buddy punching’ or membership sharing which are common terms used to describe an unauthorised person using a valid card or fob to gain access into a restricted area. Identification based on biometric fingerprint scanning removes the need to remember a password or carry a secondary credential such as a card or fob, which also eliminates theft of cards or fobs and the need for potentially costly, reoccurring replacements being ordered.
How do biometric security systems work?
– How ievo fingerprint readers work
Simply put, by using advanced image reading sensors ievo readers take a detailed scan of your finger from the surface and subsurface levels of the skin, to capture a highly accurate digital image. Specific data from the image is converted into a digital template used for fingerprint identification. Providing a user presents a finger that matches a stored user template, then access and/or time & attendance will be granted and/or recorded. The methods that ievo readers use to capture fingerprint data cannot be reverse engineered to replicate your actual fingerprint, nor is the data stored on the fingerprint reader head themselves, adding an additional layer of security and protection.
How reliable is biometric security?
– Points to consider
Biometric data found in the fingerprint develops with the individual, they are naturally unique and provide reliable recognition points for identification. Once an individual develops a fingerprint that can provide enough biometric data (usually around 12 years of age), they should be able to enrol on a biometric system. One of the core reasons fingerprints are a popular form of biometric security, is that once fully formed from an early age, a fingerprint tends not to change until later in life. Most changes that do occur tend to be abrasions to the skin, distorting skin conditions, or loss of a digit. As a person ages, the skin on the fingerprint will naturally start to lose collagen which results in a degradation of fingerprint definition which can decrease the number of data points required for identification. While some ievo products offer a solution that can combat some of these instances, our sensors rely on data to be able to be fully effective. Unsurprisingly there are individuals who naturally have ‘problem fingerprints’ (meaning not enough data points can be identified for positive identification), for further advice or help in these circumstances please download and view our Problem Fingerprint guidance document.
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