Biometrics, the science of using biological properties?fingerprints, retina scan and voice recognition?to identify individuals, are becoming the foundation of an extensive class of highly secure identification solutions. They are being promoted as a technological panacea for all kinds of security problems. However, the science of biometrics has been getting hit with some rather interesting conclusions.

“Biometric systems automatically measure the unique physiological or behavioral ?signature’ of an individual, from which a decision can be made to either authenticate or determine that individual’s identity,” explained Stephanie C. Schuckers, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Clarkson University. “Today, biometric systems are popping up everywhere ? in places like hospitals, banks, even college residence halls ? to authorize or deny access to medical files, financial accounts, or restricted or private areas. As with any identification or security system, biometric devices are prone to ‘spoofing? or attacks designed to defeat them,” said Schuckers in a recent statement.