Biometric and Two-factor Authentication Concepts

Definition: Biometric authentication is an authentication mechanism that allows a user to perform a biometric scan to operate an entry or access system.
- Characteristics: Utilizes special traits unique to each person, such as:
- Fingerprints
- Retina or iris patterns
- Facial recognition
- Voice sounds
- Advantages:
- Fast and easy to use.
- Difficult for unauthorized individuals to copy.
- Hard to lose.
- Typical Features: Physical characteristics stored as digital data templates used for user authentication.
Challenges:
- Some users find biometric authentication intrusive and are concerned about their privacy.
- Setup and maintenance of biometric systems can be more expensive than other authentication methods.
- Accuracy issues may arise, including:
- False Negatives: Incorrectly denying access to authorized users.
- False Positives: Incorrectly granting access to unauthorized users.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
- Definition: A strong authentication mechanism that requires a user to submit two different types of credentials for logging in, beyond just passwords.
- Components: Any factors from biometric information can be part of the 2FA process in various applications such as:
- Company networks
- Bank accounts
- Typical Example: Requiring a fingerprint scan plus a Personal Identification Number (PIN) as two distinct credentials for access.
- Transmission: Often, the second credential is sent via a second trusted device or account.
- Alternate Name: Also referred to as 2-step verification.