A method for model-based signature profile extraction includes capturing an image of an authentic glyph. An outline model is fit to the image of the authentic glyph, and an authentic signature profile is extracted based on the outline model. A signature profile extracted from an image of another glyph may be compared to the to the authentic signature profile so as to forensically verify authenticity of the other glyph The system for model-based signature profile extraction includes a controller, a capture unit, an outline unit, a profiling unit, and a forensic verification unit. A computer readable medium containing executable instructions is also described.