A method and apparatus for electro-biometric identity recognition or verification, producing and storing a first biometric signature that identifies a specific individual by forming the difference between a representation of the heartbeat pattern of the specific individual and a stored representation of common features of the heartbeat patterns of a plurality of individuals; after the producing step, obtaining a representation of the heartbeat pattern of a selected individual and producing a second biometric signature by forming the difference between the heartbeat pattern of the selected individual and the stored representation of common features of the heartbeat patterns of the plurality of individuals; and comparing the second biometric signature with the first biometric signature to determine whether the selected individual is the specific individual.