Biometric Authentication

Biometrics can be categorized into three groups: biological biometrics (the person’s genetic and molecular traits, such as blood or DNA), behavioral biometrics (unique patterns in actions, such as speaking, typing, or walking), and morphological biometrics (physical structures, such as eye patterns or facial features suitable for verification). 

The biometric authentication process consists of several steps, including:

1. Capturing a specific biometric trait. For example, an iris scan, fingerprint, facial or voice recognition.
2. Converting the selected trait into a digital map. Alternatively, a template that represents the unique characteristics of the individual can be used. 
3. Storing the mapped biometric information. A database is created as a future reference for comparing data if the user comes back to redo their authentication.
4. Comparing the new biometric sample. This includes cross-referencing the info with the stored template in the database. 
5. Providing the authentication results. If the biometrics match, the user is granted access and vice versa. 

Multimodal biometric authentication, sometimes referred to as multimodal fusion, is an identity verification method based on the combination of two or more biometric traits. For example, fingerprints can be authenticated together with voice patterns or facial recognition combined with fingerprint scanning. Since two layers of authentication are used, this method is considered to be more secure than a single-trait authentication approach. 

It’s a common way to improve access control, secure payment methods, or improve fraud prevention. Biometric authentication is also used as a tool for online browser control or user behavior monitoring. Various industries can benefit from this security measure. For example, healthcare organizations use biometric systems for quick access to different areas that need to be secured, allowing doctors to use fingerprints instead of cards. 

In terms of security, biometric methods reduce human error because there’s no risk of misentry. This way, this authentication measure is stronger. It uses non-transferable traits that are difficult to replicate. This also reduces identity theft and other types of fraud. Biometrics used in the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process or as a part of a multi-factor authentication (MFA) procedure can boost both security and user experience. 

It’s also a future-proof method, which proves to be a sustainable solution for businesses that want to scale and ensure proper fraud prevention practices.

Regulated, high-risk industries, such as banking, fintech, or cryptocurrency, use biometrics as part of their verification processes to prevent fraudulent accounts from accessing their network. This helps detect fake identities or fraudsters trying to conduct account takeovers. In industries like iGaming or sports betting, biometric authentication can prevent promo abuse fraud by ensuring offers are only accessed by first-time users.