Electrophysiological Biometrics: Opportunities and Risks

Abstract

The use of electrophysiological signals as features to authenticate subjects is a novel approach to biometrics. It has been proven that both electrocardiography (ECG) and electroencephalography (EEG) signals are unique enough to be applied for recognition and identification purposes. Moreover, the use of electrooculography (EOG) and electromyography (EMG), which are related to the movement of the eyes and muscular activity, can also be useful and add an extra dimension to the field of biometrics: the possibility of continuous and transparent biometrics, i.e., biometry on the move. We also comment on the future of the electrophysiological biometrics, highlighting the added value. This includes the use of a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) system for authentication purposes and the application of such a system for the evolving field of telepresence and virtual reality.