The optical biometric sensor apparatus and methods for analyzing images of biometric features such as fingerprints are adapted to distinguish between live body members and inanimate objects, and to detect spoofing devices applied to live body members. Live body members are detected by transmitting IR light from a first IR light source through an object to an image sensor. The IR transmission characteristics of a live body member vary with the human heartbeat, and multiple images are analyzed to verify whether the object is a genuine live body member. A visible light source illuminates the object for obtaining a detailed image from the sensor for conventional biometric analysis. Transmitted IR images and reflected visible light images are also processed to detect the presence of spoofing devices applied to live body members. Multiple IR and visible light sources of different wavelengths may be used for this purpose.