Authentication identity

Encyclopedia : A : AU : AUT : Authentication identity

To designers of secure computer systems, identity is a core concept of authentication. Identity theft is said to occur when one person gains control of credentials (such as credit card numbers or passwords) which belong to another, thus becoming able to masquerade as the person whose identity has been "stolen".

Some identifiers unique to an individual are:

DNA - Can only be duplicated by an identical twin, a clone, or anyone who can obtain a sample of your DNA
Iris scan - Only 1% false positive rate
Fingerprints - Can be duplicated by copying a fingerprint and casting it in gel.
Birthmarks - May be duplicated cosmetically
Dentition - Identity may be mistaken by lack of or falsification of dental X-ray records

Other identifiers which may be more easily falsified, copied, or mistaken are:

Name
Address
Postcode or ZIP Code
Phone number
Credit card number, National Insurance number (UK) or Social Security number (US) - May be mistaken through an administrative error, or falsified by someone acquiring the number from discarded records or receipts
Tattoos - May be duplicated cosmetically

Authentication identity

See also