Biometrics

(BY-oh-MEH-triks) The science of collecting and analyzing biologic or health data using statistical methods. Biometrics may be used to help learn the possible causes of a cancer or how often a cancer occurs in a certain group of people. Also called biometry and biostatistics.

A general term used alternatively to describe a characteristic or a process.

As a characteristic: A measurable biological (anatomical and physiological) and behavioral characteristic that can be used for automated recognition.

As a process: Automated methods of recognizing an individual based on measurable biological (anatomical and physiological) and behavioral characteristics.

[In INFOSEC] automated methods of authenticating or verifying an individual based upon a physical or behavioral characteristic. [INFOSEC-99]

Biologically unique information used to identify individuals. This information can be used to verify identity or check against other entries in the database. The best known biometric is the fingerprint, but others include facial recognition and iris scans. Go to our biometrics page to learn more.