PINs and passwords are no longer the 'go to' security methods we previously thought them as. Even the strongest passwords can be broken, or forgotten by their owners. Online crime is almost as common as crime in the real world, and governments and big business have to start thinking of new ways to protect their data. Biometrics is a viable option and it could prove the difference in the constant struggle to maintain security standards.
What is Biometrics?
Biometrics uses biological data to identify people. In other words, it could be a fingerprint or a scan of the iris in your eye. Since it isn't textual nobody can replicate this type of data and therefore it adds an impenetrable security layer.
It doesn't mean all other security methods will become obsolete. People should continue using PINs and passwords. For now, they should see biometrics as an added security layer.
This isn't a new form of security. Some border control checks use iris scans now. In fact, a lot of governments keep national databases filled with this data. It's still a growing technology and therefore it isn't yet a primary form of security. Conceivably, it could be used instead of things like passports and national insurance cards.
Where Did it Start?
Whilst anti-virus programs still need to be used to protect these national databases, biometrics has long been promoted as the alternative to conventional security methods.
Biometrics began in the 1970s where voice and iris recognition were first tested. Unfortunately, technology only allowed a rudimentary form of facial recognition so it couldn't be used. It wasn't until the 21st century this became possible.
Finger prints are one of the few things each human being has which is genuinely unique. Police officers have been taking the finger prints of suspects and criminals for over half a century. There's no reason why we couldn't soon see finger printing being exported to the online world.
Cost Considerations
The big drawback of biometric identification is it costs a lot of money to be implemented. This makes it unaffordable for all but the biggest organisations. Eventually, the costs will go down and it will be available for anyone in any scenario. Imagine being able to use biometrics instead of a house key, for example.
It's likely we won't see biometrics in regular use for a long time, especially online. It doesn't mean we won't start to see some ingenious Internet users attempt to develop software programs to support it, though.
We, as consumers, prioritise security above all else. The will is there and this is why it could be closer than we think. Password encryption and security certificates will take a backseat to these techniques sooner rather than later. In the meantime, stay on top of your anti-virus software updates and make sure you're doing everything you can to protect your password and PINs from fraudsters.
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