Which term names an authentication mechanism that uses biometric scans and stores physical characteristics as a digital template for user verification?

Which term names an authentication mechanism that uses biometric scans and stores physical characteristics as a digital template for user verification?

• A. Hard authentication token
• B. One-time password
• C. Biometric authentication
• D. Smart cards

Answer: (C)

Biometric authentication uses a person’s physical characteristics to verify identity. When you enroll, a biometric scan (fingerprint, iris, face, voice, etc.) is captured and processed into a digital template that encodes the most distinctive features. This template, not the raw scan, is stored securely. Later, a live scan is taken and converted into a comparison template. A matching algorithm assesses how similar the live data is to the stored template, and if the similarity is high enough, access is granted. This approach embodies “something you are,” and is distinct from methods that rely on something you have (like a hard authentication token or a smart card) or something you know (like a password). The emphasis on biometric data and templates is what makes this term the correct description.

Biometric authentication uses a person’s physical characteristics to verify identity. When you enroll, a biometric scan (fingerprint, iris, face, voice, etc.) is captured and processed into a digital template that encodes the most distinctive features. This template, not the raw scan, is stored securely. Later, a live scan is taken and converted into a comparison template. A matching algorithm assesses how similar the live data is to the stored template, and if the similarity is high enough, access is granted. This approach embodies “something you are,” and is distinct from methods that rely on something you have (like a hard authentication token or a smart card) or something you know (like a password). The emphasis on biometric data and templates is what makes this term the correct description.