PINs and passwords are on their way out. Banks, stores, and law enforcement agencies would rather scan your body parts to check your identity. Last year, manufacturers reported $928 million in biometric equipment sales, up 54 percent from 2002, and they expect to reach $1.5 billion this year. Here are some of the distinguishing features you'll soon be waving around in lieu of a driver's license.
Iris
The colored part of the eye has unique furrows, striations, pits, and variations.
Where it's checked: In airports, including JFK's tarmac, Frankfurt immigration, and check-in at Narita in Tokyo.
Quirk: Can't be scanned without your permission, so it can't be used for surveillance.
Face
Each individual face has unique "eigenfeatures," and blood vessels create thermal signatures.
Where it's checked: MGM Mirage casinos in Vegas.
Quirk: Without the infrared scan, a Groucho mustache could fool it.
Finger
Each fingertip has "minutiae" - 30 to 40 landmarks where ridges come together or end.
Where it's checked: In keychain USB drives, mouses, and PDAs now; at Piggly Wiggly checkout counters and on cell phones this summer.
Quirk: Dirt, grime, and oil on hands can mar an image.
Ear
A digital image or print shows distinctive shapes, ridges made of cartilage.
Where it's checked: In crime labs in the UK, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
Quirk: Pressure, piercings, and age change ear shape.
Odor
Human scent has roughly 30 distinct, detectable chemical components.
Where it's checked: Nowhere yet, but Darpa put up $3.2 million to sniff around.
Quirk: No amount of scrubbing or deodorant can cover it up, and it stays on your clothes after you've worn them.
Hand
Blood vessels absorb infrared light more rapidly than surrounding tissue does.
Where it's checked: In ATMs in Japan later this year. A new, touch-free scanner will prevent the spread of germs.
Quirk: Vein patterns change after death. (Good news! No one can steal your ID by cutting you up.)
- Greta Lorge
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