biometric scan

Body-based authentication method

A biometric scan is a digital reading of a physical characteristic used to verify identity—fingerprints, iris patterns, facial features, or voice.

The technology appears in security systems, phone unlocks, and border checkpoints: The airport uses biometric scans instead of boarding passes.

The scan converts biological data into a unique identifier that's difficult to forge or share.

Opposites
authentication method type

biometric scanpassword

Authentication string

PIN · passcode · security question · smart card · access card

identification approach

biometric scananonymity

Unknown identity state

open access · username · unidentified · honor system · guest login

Family

biometric, biometrics, metric, metrics, scan, scans, scanned, scanning, scanner

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G