The present disclosure is directed to a system and method of scanning an ear of a user to identify the user. The system includes a ranging sensor that detects the distance between the user and the ear detection system at one or more points and transmits that as ranging data. The ranging data is used to generate a depth model of the user's ear, from which an ear profile can be generated and compared to stored ear profiles to identify and authenticate the user. Once authenticated, the system can then enter a different operating mode based on the authentication.