How is a passcode lock possibly more secure than biometrics?

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In every device that you can unlock with biometrics like fingerprint or face scanner (Laptops, Tablets, Phones, etc.), they often claim entering a password is safer than using biometrics, and they block the most secure settings and information behind a passcode rather than a quick fingerprint or face scanner. Wouldn’t it be easier to steal a password than it would be to physically copy someone’s fingerprint?

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Anonymous 0 Comments

Passwords can be changed, biometrics cannot. But I don’t know if I agree that passwords are more secure than biometrics, in fact some security experts [say the opposite](https://www.forbes.com/sites/louiscolumbus/2020/03/08/why-your-biometrics-are-your-best-password/). Passwords have to be committed to memory and thus are often weaker than they should be, biometrics can be as strong and unique as the hardware permits.

Besides that, there are other trade-offs. As a general rule, biometrics can be obtained without your compliance, but if it does happen you are likely somewhat aware of it (you were kidnapped, physically forced onto the scanner, finger chopped off, knocked unconscious etc). Whereas a password can only be obtained through your own actions, but you aren’t necessarily aware of it happening (surveillance, deception, spyware, remote access etc). (Yes, you can also [coerce a password out of someone](https://xkcd.com/538/), but that particular scenario is no less secure than using biometrics.)

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