What Is Biometric Authentication? Benefits, Risks, Uses & More

Biometric authentication techniques are revolutionizing the way we secure our digital lives. Imagine never remembering a password again or worrying about someone else accessing your confidential information. Today, we’ll delve into biometric authentication, understanding its intricacies, and exploring its wide array of applications.

Anonybit’s identity management platform is designed to help you effectively utilize biometric authentication techniques, making your digital experiences seamless and secure. With this innovative solution, you can effortlessly safeguard your information and streamline access to various services and devices. Let’s explore how biometric authentication can simplify your digital life and enhance online security.

What Is Biometric Authentication?

Biometric authentication leverages individuals’ unique biological characteristics to validate their identity. This technique compares physical or behavioral traits to stored, confirmed, authentic data in a database. If both samples of the biometric data match, authentication is confirmed. Typically, biometric authentication manages access to physical and digital resources, such as buildings, rooms, and computing devices or networks.

Some biometric modalities like fingerprint, face, palm and iris, can be used to search through the database to determine if the person is already there. This process is typically called biometric identification, whereas biometric authentication uses biometrics to verify that people are who they claim to be.

Key Differences Between Biometric Authentication and Identification

Security has been enhanced with the arrival of biometric authentication. Since it is also an identification process, there can be some confusion in the meaning of the terms. The terms are used interchangeably, but they are different. Here are the key differentiators:

Order of sequence

In any security process, verification occurs first, followed by authentication.

What it does

Authentication ascertains whether the individual trying to gain access is who he/she claims to be. Identification is the process of associating data stored with the individual seeking access.

How it functions

In authentication, individuals answer dynamic questions only to which they have the answers. This determines whether they have the necessary credentials to access a system. Identification is where the user’s data is matched against previously collected and stored data.

Where it works best

Authentication is particularly important as a replacement to passwords, pin codes and tokens as biometrics cannot be phished or stolen. Identification on the other hand adds a layer to an identity verification process, typically at the account origination stage or in account recovery and is very important in preventing duplicates, synthetics and blocked identities from returning.  

Popularly Used Methods Of Biometrics Authentication

Facial/Selfie Recognition: The Ultimate Verification Solution

Facial/selfie recognition systems use a person’s unique facial features to identify them. These are commonly used in smartphones, payments, and travel applications. This biometric authentication method is very popular due to its ubiquity, convenience, ease of use, and the fact that cameras are already widely available on consumer devices.

Fingerprint (including Palm) Recognition: The Widely Adopted Authentication Technique 

Fingerprint authentication utilizes a person’s unique fingerprint to verify their identity. This technology is used to secure mobile phones, cars, and buildings. It is currently the most widely used biometric authentication technology for ensuring network and physical security.

Voice Recognition: The Trusted Authentication Method 

Voice recognition relies on the tone, pitch, and frequencies unique to an individual to authenticate them. This method is commonly used to verify users when contacting call centers for customer service support, such as online banking transactions. Voice recognition provides a convenient and reliable way to confirm a user’s identity.

Iris Recognition: The High-Security Authentication Solution 

Iris recognition technology utilizes the unique pattern of a person’s iris or retina to identify them accurately. Though less common due to its intricate setup requirements, it is highly accurate when implemented properly. It is commonly used in critical security situations, such as nuclear research facilities, where accuracy is paramount, or in pharmaceutical environments where masks and gloves are used, disallowing the other modalities.

Vein Recognition: The Precision Biometric Identification

Vein recognition technology employs the pattern of blood vessels in a person’s hand or finger to identify them. This biometric authentication method uses infrared light to map the veins beneath the skin, offering a highly accurate verification process. In combination with palm recognition, vein recognition surpasses iris recognition in precision and is a valuable tool for secure authentication. It is also highly scalable.

Enhanced Security and User Experience for Enterprise Authentication

At Anonybit, our decentralized biometrics system design helps companies prevent data breaches and account takeover fraud. With a decentralized biometrics solution, companies can enable passwordless login, wire verification, step-up authentication, and help desk authentication. We are on a mission to protect companies from data breaches, account takeovers, and synthetic identity fraud.

To achieve this goal, we offer security solutions such as:

• Secure storage of biometrics and PII data
• Support for the entire user lifecycle
• 1:1 biometric authentication and 1:N biometric matching to prevent duplicates, synthetics and blocklisted identities 

Anonybit eliminates the tradeoffs between privacy and security. Prevent data breaches, enable strong authentication to eliminate account takeovers, and enhance the user experience across the enterprise using Anonybit. 

Book a free demo today to learn more about our integrated identity management platform.

Related Reading

• Biometric Identity Theft
• Biometric Data Security
• Can Biometrics Be Hacked
• Privacy Issues With Biometrics
• Advantages Of Biometrics
• Biometric Privacy Laws
• Biometric Authentication Advantages And Disadvantages
• Privacy by Design
• Multi Factor Authentication Using Biometrics

Benefits And Considerations Of Using Biometrics As A Means of Authentication

Benefits

Biometric authentication offers several key advantages in terms of security, convenience, and user experience:

1. Fast and convenient

Biometric authentication processes can typically be completed in seconds, providing a quick and secure defense against identity fraud. Users don’t need to remember PINs or passwords, as their biological traits serve as credentials.

2. Improved user experience

The seamless biometric authentication makes it ideal for highly secure applications like banking, healthcare, and government services. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require special skills or knowledge.

3. Enhanced security

Biometric systems are difficult to spoof due to identity authentication and liveness detection. For example, facial recognition systems can detect if a photo or mask is used instead of a real face.

4. Continuous authentication

Behavioral biometrics, like typing patterns or device interaction, enable ongoing, real-time verification. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if a device is momentarily unattended.

5. Scalability and cost-effectiveness

While initial investment may be substantial, biometric systems offer long-term benefits such as reduced security breaches and decreased reliance on password recovery systems. The average data breach cost in 2022 was $4.35 million, highlighting the potential cost savings of investing in biometric security.

6. Non-transferable and near spoof-proof

Biometric traits like fingerprints and facial patterns are extremely difficult to replicate or transfer digitally, making them highly secure.

Risks

1. False positives and inaccuracy

With biometrics, there are two important calculations that need to be considered in any implementation – the false accept rate and the false reject rate. The false accept rate calculates how many times an imposter will be able to get past the system, and the false reject rate calculates how many times the legitimate person will be kept out. No biometric offers 100% performance all the time. It is always necessary to calibrate the two calculations to optimize the user performance for any particular use case. Working with biometric experts can help to design any given deployment and select the proper modality and algorithm.  One good resource for assessing biometric performance is the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

2. Regulatory compliance 

Collecting, storing, and using biometric data may be subject to regulatory requirements and legal frameworks that vary by jurisdiction. Companies need to examine these complexities thoroughly to ensure compliance.

3. Data breaches

Businesses and governments that collect and store users’ personal data are under constant threat from hackers. Because biometric data is irreplaceable, organizations need to treat sensitive biometric data with increased security and caution. If a password or PIN is compromised, there’s always the possibility of changing it. The same can’t be said for a person’s physiological or behavioral biometrics. New privacy enhancing technologies like multi-party computation and zero knowledge proofs enable the types of security and protection to prevent biometric data breaches.

4. Bias

Historically, some biometric systems have shown demographic bias. However, advancements have been made to address this issue, particularly by top providers.

5. Longevity of biometric features

Some biometric traits may change over time due to aging, injury, or other factors, potentially affecting authentication accuracy.

Decentralized Biometrics for Secure and Streamlined Authentication

At Anonybit, our decentralized biometrics system design helps companies prevent data breaches and account takeover fraud. With a decentralized biometrics solution, companies can enable passwordless login, wire verification, step-up authentication, and help desk authentication. We are on a mission to protect companies from data breaches, account takeovers, and synthetic identity fraud.

To achieve this goal, we offer security solutions such as:

• Secure storage of biometrics and PII data
• Support for the entire user lifecycle
• 1:1 biometric authentication and 1:N biometric matching to prevent duplicates, synthetics and blocklisted identities 

Anonybit eliminates the tradeoffs between privacy and security. Prevent data breaches, enable strong authentication to eliminate account takeovers, and enhance the user experience across the enterprise using Anonybit.

Book a free demo today to learn more about our integrated identity management platform.

What Is Multimodal Biometric Authentication?

Multimodal biometric authentication adds layers to an authentication process by requiring multiple identifiers to be read simultaneously. This can be considered a form of multifactor authentication (MFA), though clearly much different from the better-known form where sensitive information is entered into a mobile and/or desktop device.

Multi-Factor Authentication and Reduced Risk of Identity Theft

Increased security without the need for key cards, access cards, passwords or personal identification numbers is among the advantages for organizations that choose to adopt this approach. Malicious actors who attempt to hack or fake their way through an authentication system have a harder time faking two or more unique characteristics of an individual than if they were to try faking only one.

What Are The Use Cases Of Biometric Authentication?

Healthcare Industry Applications of Biometric Authentication

In the healthcare industry, biometric authentication is proving to be a game-changer. It’s helping us enhance patient identification and increase the security of medical records, making it hard for identity thieves and medical fraudsters to escape. With biometric authentication, healthcare firms can verify patients’ identities more accurately and effectively, helping to ensure that the right patients get the right treatments. For instance, some hospitals use fingerprint scanners to help verify patients’ identities.

Financial Sector Application of Biometric Authentication

Biometric authentication is also becoming a darling of the financial sector. Many financial institutions and fintech firms are embracing it. They’re using fingerprint scanners, voice recognition systems, iris scanners, and even heartbeat monitors to ensure secure transactions. This helps safeguard customer accounts and assets. The technology makes it hard for fraudsters to access customer accounts and steal money. For instance, some banks use voice recognition systems to verify the identities of customers who want to access their accounts.

Border Control and Immigration Biometric Authentication Usage

Government agencies are also using biometric authentication for border control and immigration. They verify travelers’ identities as they enter or leave a country, helping to prevent identity theft and nationality fraud. For instance, some airports use facial recognition systems to identify travelers entering or leaving the country.

Voting Systems Utilizing Biometric Authentication

Biometric authentication is also finding its way into voting systems. It’s helping to improve the security and reliability of voter registration systems. This ensures that only verified voters can vote, minimizing voter fraud. For instance, some states use facial recognition systems to identify registered voters.

National ID Systems Utilizing Biometric Authentication

National ID systems in some countries also incorporate biometric authentication. These systems include identity documents with biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition information. This ensures that only verified citizens get access to government services.

Education Sector’s Use of Biometric Authentication

The education sector also uses biometric authentication. It’s helping schools and universities to enhance access control. For example, some schools use biometric systems to control building access, track attendance, and manage computer systems and resources.

Passwords vs Biometrics: Which Is Safer?

Biometrics Strengthens Multi-Factor Authentication

Biometrics adds an additional barrier to other security measures, enabling multi-factor authentication. Biometrics are generally bound to the mobile device or laptop as their use requires the user’s physical presence to authenticate.

Difficult to Replicate

Biometric authentication is a powerful type of authentication because unlike passwords, it is extremely difficult to recreate. Passwords, on the other hand, can be easily hackable through multiple methods. The most common are phishing attacks, where hackers masquerade as a customer service rep or email a user asking for their login credentials. With biometric authentication, you cannot send an accurate authentication method without being physically present or registered to that device.

Unique to the User’s Facial and Fingerprint Identity

Biometric authentication is the stronger method as it is unique to the user’s facial and fingerprint identity. It cannot be replicated, making spoofing attacks much less common.

How Accurate Is Biometric Authentication?

Biometric authentication is generally considered a highly accurate method of verifying an individual’s identity. The uniqueness of biometric traits, such as fingerprints or facial characteristics, contributes to their reliability in authentication.

False Acceptance Rate (FAR) and False Rejection Rate (FRR)

Two metrics are widely used to measure the system’s accuracy: False Acceptance Rate (FAR) and False Rejection Rate (FRR). The FAR is the probability that the system incorrectly accepts an impostor as a legitimate user, while the FRR is the probability that the system incorrectly rejects a genuine user.

Modality, Sample Quality, and System Implementation 

Various factors can influence the accuracy of biometric authentication. This includes the specific biometric modality used, the biometric sample’s quality, and the system’s implementation. For example, fingerprint recognition has been shown to have a relatively low FAR and FRR, making it one of the most accurate forms of the system. Many facial recognition algorithms also have top performance.

Balancing Security and User Experience

Organizations implementing biometric authentication systems must carefully consider the accuracy requirements of their specific use case. To ensure that the system meets the desired accuracy levels, it’s crucial to strike a balance between security, convenience, and user experience.

Related Reading

• Biometric Authentication Methods
• Biometric Data Privacy
• Biometric Data Breach
• Biometric Spoofing
• Device Based Verification
• How Is Biometric Data Stored
• Biometrics In Healthcare
• Biometric Authentication Banking
• Biometric Data GDPR

Myths Surrounding Biometric Authentication

Biometric identification can be tricked with static images and photographs

Modern biometric authentication solutions include liveness detection capabilities to discern whether the biometric trait presented is authentic, a mask, model, image, or even a video. In some cases, the user may be asked to blink or turn their head to authenticate, but other liveness detection capabilities work entirely in the background.

Biometric models expire as the user ages or features change

In biometric authentication applications, the user typically authenticates regularly enough that these small changes in appearance will not be large enough to invalidate the match. Instead, the mathematical model will be updated as it recognizes changes in appearance.

Biometric technology is an invasion of privacy

Biometric authentication solutions generally require the user to consent to enrolling in biometric authentication. In terms of storage, a photographic image of a user’s face is not stored in a database; only a mathematical model of the face is stored. With the latest privacy-enhancing technologies, that mathematical model can be broken down into anonymized pieces that are stored in different locations, securing the biometric record from hackers.

Related Reading

• Biometric MFA
• Biometrics and Cyber Security
• Biometrics Privacy Concerns
• Biometric Identity Management
• Multimodal Biometrics
• Decentralized Biometric Authentication
• Biometrics Integration
• Biometric Security Solutions
• Future of Biometrics

Book A Free Demo To Learn More About Our Integrated Identity Management Platform

At Anonybit, we help companies prevent data breaches and account takeover fraud with our decentralized biometrics technology. With our decentralized biometrics framework, companies can enable passwordless login, wire verification, step-up authentication, help desk authentication and more. 

Comprehensive Security Solutions for Companies

We are on a mission to protect companies from data breaches, account takeovers and synthetic identity on the rise, privacy regulations, and digital transformation. To achieve this goal, we offer security solutions such as:

• Secure storage of biometrics and PII data
• Support for the entire user lifecycle
• 1:1 authentication and 1:N matching for lookups and deduplication

Balancing Privacy and Security with Anonybit’s Integrated Platform

Anonybit eliminates the tradeoffs between privacy and security. Prevent data breaches, reduce account takeover fraud, and enhance the user experience across the enterprise using Anonybit. Book a free demo today to learn more about our integrated identity management platform.