Biometric
ELI5 — The Vibe Check
Biometric authentication uses your body as your password — fingerprint, face, iris scan. It's convenient because you can't forget your face at home, but it's also permanent. If your fingerprint data is stolen, you can't change your fingerprints like you can change a password. Powerful but irreversible.
Real Talk
Biometric authentication uses measurable physical or behavioral characteristics for identity verification. Common biometrics: fingerprint (most common), face recognition, iris scan, voice, and behavioral patterns (typing rhythm). Device-based biometrics (Touch ID, Face ID) are more secure as raw data never leaves the device.
When You'll Hear This
"The app uses biometric authentication with Face ID on iOS." / "Biometrics are convenient but irreversible if compromised."
Related Terms
2FA (2FA)
2FA is short for Two-Factor Authentication. Two locks instead of one. Password plus a code from your phone (or a hardware key).
Authentication (AuthN)
Authentication is proving you are who you say you are.
MFA (MFA)
MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication. It's the umbrella term for requiring multiple proofs of identity. 2FA is MFA with exactly two factors.
TOTP (TOTP)
TOTP (Time-based One-Time Password) is the 6-digit code that changes every 30 seconds in apps like Google Authenticator.