How do the biometrics described operate?

• A. Processes biometric data by scanning a fingerprint
• B. Takes a picture and measures to a known database
• C. Stores DNA profile
• D. Uses RFID tokens

Answer: (B)

Biometric authentication works by capturing a live trait, extracting its unique features, and comparing that live sample to templates already stored in a database to verify identity. The description in this scenario reflects that process: a picture is taken and then its features are measured against the known templates in a database to determine if there’s a match. This comparison step is what actually authenticates the user, not just the initial capture.

The other ideas don’t fit the mechanism of how biometrics typically operate. A fingerprint scan describes how the trait is captured but doesn’t explicitly include the matching against stored templates. Storing a DNA profile is not the standard, practical approach for everyday authentication and raises privacy concerns. RFID tokens represent something you have, not a biometric trait you are, so they aren’t describing biometric operation.