A Survey of Emerging Biometric Technologies

Abstract

Computer Security System / technology have passed through several changes. The trends have been from what you know (e.g. password, PIN, etc) to what you have (ATM card, Driving License, etc) and presently to who you are (Biometry) or combinations of two or more of the trios. This technology (biometry) has come to solve the problems identified with knowledge-based and token-based authentication systems. It is possible to forget your password and what you have can as well be stolen. The security of determining who you are is referred to as BIOMETRIC. Biometric, in a nutshell, is the use of your body as password. This paper explores the various methods of biometric identification that have evolved over the years and the features used for each modality.