Abstract: The method of the present invention includes the analysis of data representing a bit mapped image of an area of an individual's retina that includes the optic disk where the data for each pixel of the image represents the intensity of the pixel. The method of the present invention locates the optic disk in the image and generates a unique and consistent signal pattern for identifying an individual from pixel data having a predetermined relationship to the individual's optic disk. The generated signal pattern is then used to verify the identity of the individual.