Biometrics: Your Body and the Science of Security by Maria Birmingham

Abstract

Reviewed by: Biometrics: Your Body and the Science of Security by Maria Birmingham Elizabeth Bush Birmingham, Maria Biometrics: Your Body and the Science of Security; illus. by Ian Turner. Owlkids, 2017 [48p] ISBN 978-1-77147-193-0 $16.95 Reviewed from galleys R Gr. 3-6 In this accessible, well-organized presentation, Birmingham discusses some of the familiar, unfamiliar, and futuristic methods used to establish an individual's identity. After introductory remarks on the need for identification, she presents four-page chapters on physiological and behavioral techniques, noting for each the ease of data collection and cross-checking (enrollment and verification), level of overall security, a short history of its development, who is using it, related technologies under development, and the pros and cons of the technique. Fingerprints, hand geometry, facial recognition, iris and retinal scanning, voice and vein recognition, signature and odor recognition are covered in detail, with nods to the future of quicker DNA testing; the use of foot pressure, smile, lip, and tongue, and even bum identification are included as well. The text moves steadily, and what at first appear to be cartoon-intensive, overcrammed layouts are actually consistent in content. Although the "wow" factor here is the amazing possibility of what can be done, Birmingham also addresses the downside of lost privacy, covertly obtained data, and hacking into identification storage systems. This will be an effective springboard for young researchers attempting to zero in on an interesting topic, and a list selected sources (many online) will help them get started. Copyright © 2017 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois