Is Facial Recognition Safer Than a Fingerprint?

Biometric recognition systems offer plenty of benefits. Have you ever asked the question is facial recognition safer than a fingerprint? Biometric identification is based on the principle that every person has a set of unique data that can be recognized and verified.

First biometric identification systems emerged in the late 19th century. At first, they were used by the police for criminal identification. However, this technique is no longer used only in law enforcement. Starting from fingerprint identification as a part of the analysis of physical evidence, it transformed into a global network relying on technological advancements. 

Let’s quickly define fingerprint identification and facial recognition. Automated Fingerprint Identification (AFI) is a process of using a computer to match fingerprints against a database of both known and unknown prints. Thanks to immense development in technology, automated fingerprint verification came into play.

This technique is more accessible to the wider public, being implemented in applications such as attendance and access control systems. You probably know this from experience, as many smartphones have a fingerprint scanner that allows you to unlock them, verify purchases, and so on.

When it comes to facial recognition, it’s a form of biometric identification that operates by analyzing the patterns and facial contours of a person’s face. Its development dates back to the 1960s. Starting from camera face detection, face analysis, and data conversion, facial recognition is used in many areas in your daily life. From identifying missing persons, shoplifters, sports events, school and casino security, to targeted advertising, ATMs, and unlocking your phone, it’s one of the most effective, yet also the most pervasive ways of identifying a person.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

So, which of these methods is more effective, and which one is safer? When compared to fingerprint detection, facial recognition is proved to work better. AFI is prone to inconsistencies such as dirt or oil particles that may interfere with the verification process.

Meanwhile, the technology used in facial recognition uses a high-quality iris scan, which makes security difficult to crack. On the other hand, fingerprint sensors are cheap, not as pervasive, and work faster. The bottom line is, if you want your biometric security to be both safe and effective, you should combine these two methods. For more information, make sure you visit VPNCompare!

Infographic: What is Facial Recognition?