what are biometrics

Biometrics are biological measurements or physical characteristics that can be used to identify individuals. Biometric authentication is used in computer science as a form of identification and access control. Biometric identifiers are the distinctive, measurable characteristics used to label and describe individuals. Biometric identifiers are often categorized as physiological characteristics which are related to the shape of the body. Examples include, but are not limited to, fingerprint, palm veins, face recognition, DNA, palm print, hand geometry, iris recognition, retina, odor/scent, voice, shape of ears, and gait. Biometrics can be used in security and are mainly used for identification and access control or for identifying individuals who are under surveillance. Biometric authentication compares data for the persons characteristics to that person's biometric "template" to determine resemblance. Biometric technology is used by the Department of Homeland Security to detect and identify individuals.