AP® Cybersecurity glossary

Biometric factor

Also called: something you are, inherence factor, biometric authentication

Course: AP® Cybersecurity Shows up in: Unit 4: Securing Devices

An authentication factor that measures the body, such as a fingerprint, face, iris, retina or voice.

Appears in the course and exam description (CED): 4.2.C.14.2.C.4

Why it matters in Unit 4

A fingerprint or iris belongs to one body, so copying it takes real effort; voice is the weak spot, because AI can now imitate it.

Example

Unlocking a laptop with a fingerprint reader.

Related terms

• Authentication factor
• Multifactor authentication (MFA)