Touch ID technology relies on reading the unique details of the fingerprint and converting them into an encrypted mathematical representation, instead of storing an actual image of the fingerprint. This data is stored within a special security chip known as the Secure Enclave, which is an isolated area within Apple devices designed to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access to it.
Apple explains that Touch ID data does not leave the device and is not uploaded to the company’s servers or saved via cloud storage services. Applications also cannot access the fingerprint information itself, but only receive the result of the verification process, whether it was successful or failed.
The sensor works by comparing the new fingerprint with the mathematical data stored inside the device, allowing it to be used to unlock the Mac, complete payments via Apple Pay, and authenticate within some applications without having to enter the password every time.
According to the information, the probability of a false match in “Touch ID” is approximately one case in every 50,000 registered fingerprints, while some short passwords can be guessed more easily.
Apple also imposes additional security restrictions, as fingerprint authentication is disabled after several failed attempts, and the password is required in certain cases such as restarting the device or passing a long period without using the password. Mac devices allow adding a limited number of fingerprints to different accounts, with the aim of maintaining a balance between ease of use and security protection.
