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Biometrics refers to the measurement and statistical analysis of people's unique physical and behavioral characteristics. These characteristics are used to identify and authenticate individuals. Common biometric identifiers include fingerprints, facial features, iris patterns, voice recognition, and even gait. Behavioral biometrics, such as typing rhythm or signature dynamics, are also used. The fundamental principle behind biometrics is that each individual possesses unique and quantifiable traits that can be used for identification.

The application of biometrics spans various sectors. In security, it is widely employed for access control, be it for physical locations, digital devices, or online accounts. Biometric systems can enhance security by providing a more reliable method of authentication compared to traditional passwords or keys, which can be lost, stolen, or forgotten. For example, smartphones commonly use fingerprint scanners or facial recognition for unlocking.

Beyond security, biometrics plays a role in healthcare for patient identification, ensuring accurate medical records and preventing fraud. It is also used in border control and law enforcement for identifying individuals. The technology involves capturing biometric data, storing a template of that data, and then comparing new captures against the stored template for verification or identification. While offering significant advantages in convenience and security, biometric systems also raise privacy concerns regarding the collection and potential misuse of sensitive personal data.