OgleArnette109
Fingerprint scanning is a standard biometric method that authenticates a user's identity based upon who they really are. Despite the fact that authentication using fingerprint scanning attempts to verify identities using a completely unique characteristic, it's not 100% secure or reliable.
A user's fingerprint includes a quantity of ridges and valleys around the upper skin layer. A fingerprint scanner plate using optics or capacitance collects a print sample of the pattern of ridges and valleys, converts the pattern to a number or algorithm, and compares it with other stored templates.
There are two basic types of fingerprint scanners, dynamic and static, with the latter being easier to defeat because a print could be obtained from another object and transferred to the scanner. The dynamic scanner utilizes a small slit or opening to capture prints, which makes it a lot more hard to defeat.
Circumventing fingerprint scanners is possible because optical scanners can't always distinguish between a picture of the finger and the finger itself, and capacitive scanners can often be fooled with a mold of a person's finger. Some scanners have additional pulse as well as heat sensors to ensure the finger is alive but even these systems could be fooled by a gel or silicone printed mold on the real finger.
Along with threats by posed attackers, fingerprint scanning has inherent problems, for example in cold climates it may be freezing for fingerprints to join up on the heat sensor or perhaps a finger might be too dry to close a capacitive circuit. Further, the (FAR) false accept rate and (FRR) false reject rate of fingerprint scanning compared to other biometric standards is somewhat misleading because of the fact much of the data originates from biased vendors. However, in general fingerprint scanning rates are superior to facial recognition rates but less favorable in comparison with iris recognition or palm print scanning.
Keep in mind that there is no perfect biometric system and every type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and should be evaluated according to its application.
To create security systems more reliable, it's a good idea to combine biometric analysis along with other means of identification, like a password, or other multi-factor authentication systems.
We'd not recommend the fingerprint scanning biometric technique for locations or objects that need a high-level of security. If a building with highly sensitive information had fingerprint scanning because the only security device, then a layman could lift a fingerprint from the car door, glass, etc., and get access to the building.
Like passwords, fingerprint scanning is merely a deterrent from use of information. Fingerprint scanners are used on many laptops today, but the primary security is through to lock it within the trunk when you are traveling or keep it kept in the house because with enough time, someone could break through password or fingerprint security.
