Abstract: A method of and apparatus for verifying the identity of an individual is based on the profile of a hand print. A set of reference data is created by determining the location of the edges of each finger separately to generate a set of finger profiles, establishing a central axis for each finger profile by reference to the edges thereof, rotating the central axis of each finger profile until it is normal to a reference line, determining the width of each finger profile at predetermined locations parallel to said reference line, and recording said finger profile information. Thereafter, a candidate's finger profile can then be compared with the reference profile by comparing the width of each finger profile at predetermined locations, determining whether the corresponding between finger widths at said predetermined locations meets a predetermined criteria, and then indicating acceptance or rejection of the candidate.