What is identity verification?

Identity verification is fundamentally about confirming the identity of an individual to ensure they are who they claim to be. This process typically involves assessing various forms of identification or credentials provided by the individual. For instance, it may include checking government-issued IDs, verifying usernames and passwords, or utilizing security questions.

This process is crucial within information security contexts, as it lays the groundwork for establishing trust. By accurately confirming someone's identity, organizations can better manage access to sensitive information and systems, helping prevent unauthorized actions.

In contrast, while preventing unauthorized access is an important aspect of overall security measures, it relies on identity verification as a key component. Evaluating the validity of a user's claim ties closely to the overall objective of identity verification but does not fully encompass its broad scope. Lastly, biometric security measures, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, serve as tools within the identity verification process rather than defining the concept itself.