Fingerprinting is the process of collecting and analyzing the unique patterns of ridges and valleys on a person's fingertips. Each individual's fingerprints are distinct, making them a reliable method for identification. This technique is commonly used in law enforcement to match suspects to crime scenes or to verify identities. The practice of fingerprinting dates back to the late 19th century when it was first used for criminal identification. Today, it is also employed in various fields, including biometrics for security systems and background checks for employment. Fingerprints can be collected using ink or digital scanners, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.