DNA fingerprinting is a technique used to identify individuals based on their unique DNA sequence. It was invented in 1984 and involves analyzing genetic material like blood or hair to create a DNA profile that can be compared to others. DNA fingerprinting is widely used in forensics, paternity testing, immigration cases, and identifying disaster victims. The basic procedure involves collecting a sample, extracting DNA, amplifying specific regions via PCR, separating DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis, analyzing band patterns to create profiles, and comparing profiles statistically.