Biometric Measures and Password Systems (AQA GCSE Computer Science): Flashcards

Biometric security

Uses unique physical features to identify & authenticate

How biometric systems verify identity

Scan physical features & compare to stored data

4 types of biometric features

Fingerprints, facial recognition, voice, retinal scan

Why biometrics can't be stolen or forgotten

Built into your body, always with you

Key security advantage of biometrics

More secure than passwords, completely unique to each person

Strong password requirement

Must be strong & never written down

Partial character entry

System asks for specific characters (e.g., 2nd, 3rd, 7th)

Why partial character entry is used

Prevents spyware/keyloggers capturing complete password

Two-step authentication

Password + code sent to phone/device for access

Two-step authentication steps

1. Enter password 2) Receive code 3) Enter code for access

How long two-step codes are valid

Short period, usually 30-60 seconds

Most secure systems use

Multiple layers of protection/combined methods