Using tattoos, scars, and ear biometrics

Today, there are several biometrics in use to identify and/or authenticate an individual. In addition to the common biometrics such as fingerprint, iris, and facial recognition, there are a few other unique features that can help positively identify someone.

In this section, we’ll take a look at how tattoos, scars, and birthmarks can also be used in the identification process. In addition, we’ll cover ear biometrics, a novel way to uniquely identify someone.

Let’s start with a discussion on ways we can use tattoos.

Visualizing tattoos

A tattoo is a visual design or marking on the skin. To obtain a tattoo, dyes or pigments are imprinted into the dermis layer of the skin. Tattoos have been in existence for centuries, dating back to Egyptian times.

Today, over one-third of the world’s population has a tattoo. Individuals that have them range in age, socio-economic status, and nationality. In addition...