Description: Biometric recognition is the process of identifying individuals based on their unique biological traits. This technology is based on the premise that each person has physical or behavioral characteristics that are distinctive and can be measured accurately. Among the most common traits used in biometric recognition are fingerprints, facial recognition, iris patterns, and voice. The implementation of this technology has grown exponentially in recent years, especially in various devices, where it has become an essential tool for security and authentication. Biometric recognition not only enhances the protection of personal data but also facilitates access to devices and applications, eliminating the need to remember complex passwords. Furthermore, its integration with artificial intelligence allows for faster and more accurate processing, adapting to variations in users’ biometric characteristics. In an increasingly digital world, biometric recognition presents itself as an innovative and efficient solution for the identification and authentication of individuals, offering a balance between security and convenience.
History: Biometric recognition has its roots in the 19th century when fingerprints began to be used for criminal identification. In 1892, Sir Francis Galton published a study on fingerprints, and in 1901, Italian criminologist Cesare Lombroso used this method in police investigations. Throughout the 20th century, technology advanced, and in the 1960s, automatic fingerprint recognition systems were developed. With the advent of computing and digitization in the 1980s and 1990s, biometric recognition expanded to include features such as facial and iris recognition. In the 21st century, technology has evolved significantly, driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning, allowing for greater accuracy and speed in biometric identification.
Uses: Biometric recognition is used in a variety of applications, from security in devices to access control in sensitive facilities. In the security realm, it is employed to unlock smartphones, authenticate banking transactions, and access computer systems. In the government sector, it is used for identity verification in passports and identity documents. Additionally, in the business realm, it is applied in access control to buildings and restricted areas. It has also begun to be used in healthcare for patient identification and in customer service to enhance user experience.
Examples: A practical example of biometric recognition is the use of fingerprints in smartphones, such as models that use fingerprint scanning technology. Another case is facial recognition in devices that employ facial detection to unlock the device and authenticate payments. In the security realm, many airports have implemented facial recognition systems to streamline the boarding process. In the banking sector, some institutions use voice biometrics to authenticate customers during phone calls.
