Do They Understand What They Are Using? -- Assessing Perception and Usage of Biometrics

TL;DR

This study investigates users' understanding, perceptions, and misconceptions about biometric authentication through surveys conducted in 2019 and 2023, highlighting gaps between usage and comprehension.

Contribution

It provides empirical insights into user perceptions and misconceptions about biometrics, informing future biometric interface design and user education.

Findings

Most users can identify biometrics but struggle to explain underlying concepts.

Users have misconceptions about biometric security and usability.

Perceptions of biometrics have evolved over time.

Abstract

In this paper we assess how well users know biometric authentication methods, how they perceive them, and if they have misconceptions about them. We present the results of an online survey that we conducted in two rounds (2019, N=57; and 2023, N=47) to understand the impact of the increasing availability of biometrics on their use and perception. The survey covered participants' general understanding of physiological and behavioral biometrics and their perceived usability and security. While most participants were able to name examples and stated that they use biometrics in their daily lives, they still had difficulties explaining the concepts behind them. We shed light on participants' misconceptions, their coping strategies with authentication failures and potential attacks, as well as their perception of the usability and security of biometrics in general. As such, our results can support the design of both further studies to gain deeper insights and future biometric interfaces to foster the informed use of biometrics.