Our lives are increasingly spent online and through our digital devices. As a result, companies have to constantly improve and update security systems to keep users safe from attacks from cyber criminals.
Traditional systems like passwords are fast becoming a thing of the past. They can be easily breached by rogue actors leaving user information at risk. One of the latest developments in security technology is biometric recognition. Let’s take a look at the main types of biometric recognition tech and discuss its uses and benefits. Keep reading to find out more.
What is Biometric Recognition?
With traditional security methods like the username and password, systems will give access to individuals who can demonstrate that they are in possession of the information associated with that particular account. This has an obvious flaw, someone who has obtained that information illicitly will be able to access the account even if they are not the legitimate account holder.
With biometric recognition, systems can verify the identity of a user by recognizing unique characteristics or features that only the genuine account holder would possess. Let’s take a look at some of these in more detail.
Fingerprint Recognition
Fingerprint recognition was one of the earliest forms of biometric technology, and we have seen it used on mobile devices and other products for over 10 years.
It works by quickly assessing and evaluating user fingerprints, checking for minute details that confirm that the fingerprint belongs to the true account holder. This has clear security advantages and fingerprint technology can ensure your online accounts are safe, be they at a streaming platform or an online casino.
Retinal Scanning
Retinal scanning is a more advanced type of biometric recognition technology. It is often seen in science fiction media, and it is what most people imagine when they think of sophisticated security systems.
It works by using infrared light to scan the eye, where it can identify markers that are unique to each individual. Retinal scanning has a predicted error rate of just one in ten million. This reliability has seen it used by a number of government bodies and agencies.
Facial Recognition
Facial recognition systems are relatively new, we’re now seeing them used in more mobile and personal digital devices. They can quickly map users’ faces and detect characteristics for identity verification purposes.
It offers a number of advantages over touch recognition protocols. It is more hygienic and can verify user identity remotely. It can also be cheaper and easier for manufacturers to implement as it can be integrated with existing device features like the camera.
Voice Recognition
Voice recognition technology isn’t particularly new, but it has seen increasing popularity due to the prevalence of devices like the Amazon Echo and Google Home.
Voice recognition offers greater accessibility benefits than other forms of biometric technology. However, its performance can be influenced by environmental factors such as loud or noisy surroundings.
Conclusion
Biometric technology is set to be the future of security systems, it offers a number of advantages over traditional user identity verification methods.
