How are fingerprints used for computer security?

Recent technological advances using optical scanners and solid-state readers use software to analyze the geometric pattern of fingerprints and compare it with those of registered, legitimate users of a network system. Less expensive models of these devices have false acceptance rates of less than 25 per million and false rejection rates of less than three percent. Possible applications include using fingerprints instead of passwords for computers, linking to individual bank accounts and automated teller machines, and for credit cards and Internet transactions.