Comparing DNA and retinal scans

Two highly accurate methods to prove someone’s identity are by evaluating a subject’s DNA or using a retinal scan. In this section, we’ll uncover just what is involved in these two forms of biometrics, along with some of the reasons we might use them.

Let’s start with seeing how DNA is used to identify an individual.

Using our DNA

DNA is what makes up our genetic code. Every living being has DNA, which holds all the information required to build and maintain an animal, plant, or single-celled life form.

When evaluating DNA to identify someone, a key indicator is called a Short Tandem Repeat (STR), which is examined and then compared between individuals. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) uses 13 core STRs, which are used in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a government-managed DNA database. During an evaluation using DNA, the core 13 (or more) STR sequences are chosen for comparison, as they vary...