In accordance with one embodiment, an access control system is disclosed. The access control system comprises an access control panel including a touchable surface, a multi-dimensional touch sensor under the touchable surface, and a processor coupled to the multi-dimensional touch sensor. The multi-dimensional touch sensor captures a multi-dimensional motion signal including a micro-motion signal component representing neuro-mechanical micro-motions of a user touching the multi-dimensional touch sensor. The processor performs signal processing of the multi-dimensional motion signal to obtain the micro-motion signal component; and extracts unique values of predetermined features from the micro-motion signal component to form a neuro-fingerprint (NFP) that uniquely identifies the user. The NFP can be used as a gatekeeper to control entry into homes, offices, buildings, or other real properly typically protected by access control.