Fingerprint scanner

Suprema, a global pioneer of AI-based security solutions, has announced its participation in ISC West 2024, the largest security trade show in the United States, scheduled to take place from April 10 to 12 in Las Vegas. Suprema will showcase the exceptional performance of its deep-learning-based AI algorithms in facial authentication and fingerprint recognition, exemplified by its advanced on-device AI solutions, namely the award-winning BioStation 3 and BioStation 2a. BioStar 2 access control platform Attendees can also anticipate a preview of an upcoming AI-based facial authentication product that will be a game changer at the door slated for release in the latter half of the year. In addition, making its entry to the North American Market, Suprema will introduce CLUe, a cloud-based access authentication API service designed to streamline the integration of Suprema devices with third-party cloud platforms. One of the highlights will be the integration of the BioStar 2 access control platform with VMS One of the highlights will be the integration of the BioStar 2 access control platform with a Video Management System (VMS), offering users a comprehensive view of real-time video and data from on-device AI access authentication solutions, all accessible through a single interface. Strategic initiatives The BioStar 2 platform boasts a flexible architecture that caters to both small-scale offices and enterprise-scale operations, showcasing its scalability and customisable features tailored to diverse organisational requirements. As part of its strategic initiatives to bolster its market presence and extend its footprint in North America, Suprema has collaborated with pioneering global security providers to integrate its renowned biometric devices seamlessly. At ISC West 2024, Suprema will demonstrate various integration solutions, emphasising the seamless user experience with partners such as Genetec, Software House, Verkada, and Honeywell. Delivering advanced solutions “By showcasing our extensive product portfolio at ISC West, we are reaffirming our commitment to expanding in the North American market," stated Bob McKee, President of Suprema America, a global pioneer selling into over 147 countries.  He emphasised that Suprema continues to demonstrate its dedication to cutting-edge technology with the introduction of AI-based face authentication and fingerprint recognition platforms. "Innovation is not just a word at Suprema," Bob added, highlighting the company's commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering advanced solutions to its customers worldwide.

Suprema, a global pioneer in AI-based security solutions, has announced the supply of the latest version of the under-display ultrasonic fingerprint recognition algorithm, BioSign, to the Samsung Galaxy S24 series supported by the Qualcomm 3D Sonic Sensor Gen 2. Since 2019, starting with the Samsung Galaxy S10, Suprema has continuously incorporated fingerprint recognition algorithms into numerous Galaxy S series, earning recognition for its world-class technological capabilities. BioSign 6.0 version The BioSign 6.0 version featured in the Samsung Galaxy S24 has received acclaim in the market for its significantly upgraded fingerprint recognition speed and security. Compared to its predecessor, BioSign 5.0, BioSign 6.0 has achieved a technological innovation that simultaneously enhances speed and accuracy. It provides an improvement in accuracy and a faster response time, to greatly enhance user convenience. AI-based fingerprint analysis AI-based fingerprint analysis algorithm that efficiently recognises abundant fingerprint information Particularly noteworthy is the optimised AI-based fingerprint analysis algorithm that efficiently recognises abundant fingerprint information obtained through the Qualcomm® 3D Sonic Sensor Gen-2. "The adoption of Suprema's fingerprint recognition technology in the Samsung Galaxy smartphone series signifies significant recognition of our top-notch technological capabilities in the global market," said James Lee, Suprema Inc. Founder and Chairman. AI-based fingerprint and facial recognition James Lee adds, "BioSign 6.0, in particular, is being evaluated for delivering overwhelming performance and user convenience compared to existing technologies, creating expectations for market expansion." He continues, “Our commitment to continuous advancement in fingerprint and facial recognition technology based on AI is pioneering the way in the biometric recognition market.”

IDEMIA Public Security, the global provider of biometric and secure identity solutions for government, travel, and law enforcement has once again proven its leadership, showcasing the most accurate algorithms in the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) latest Evaluation of Latent Fingerprint Technologies (ELFT) tests. NIST ELFT NIST ELFT is the global benchmark for latent fingerprint and palm print identification used to identify latent fingerprints and palm prints found at crime scenes. For the fourth time in a row, IDEMIA Public Security leads the market with the most accurate and fastest (among the most accurate) algorithms. Low FPIR IDEMIA demonstrated vastly superior performance in palmprint identification In addition to accuracy, which increases the chances of identifying leads in law enforcement investigations, IDEMIA’s algorithms showed a very low False Positive Identification Rate (FPIR at less than 8% whereas the nearest competitor is at above 11%), allowing the latent examiner to process more cases, accurately and faster. Furthermore, IDEMIA demonstrated vastly superior performance in palmprint identification, another highly significant contribution. Using this technology, the human-artificial Intelligence (AI) duo becomes more productive, and the examiner’s valuable time is optimised. Fast, accurate, and fair solutions IDEMIA is committed to the highest level of performance to provide fast, accurate, and fair solutions. As a result, IDEMIA’s customers can solve crimes more quickly, while the communities and the world are made a safer place. These ELFT results come on the heels of other recent high-ranking performances in NIST benchmarks, further demonstrating IDEMIA’s technology leadership. These include: FINGERPRINT: 1 in the NIST Proprietary Fingerprint Template (PFT) III benchmark on all test datasets in December 2023, 1 in NIST ELFT February 2024, 1 in the mFIT Challenge in June 2022, FACE: 1 in fairness and demonstrated lack of bias for the NIST Face Recognition Vendor Test (FRVT) in January 2023, IRIS: 1 in the latest NIST Iris Exchange (IREX 10) ranking in September 2023. Multi-Biometric Search Services (MBSS) solutions "Based on our performance in this benchmark, we can confirm our long-term commitment to investing in further developing the technology and creating continuously more value for the customers. Our ability to offer cutting-edge products goes hand in hand with our long-standing 50-plus-year pledge to provide law enforcement agencies with the best systems on the market." "I am very proud to announce that the latest algorithms submitted to this benchmark are already available in our flagship Multi-Biometric Search Services (MBSS) solutions. I would like to congratulate our teams of developers on their hard work and innovation," said Jean-Christophe Fondeur, IDEMIA Public Security Chief Technology Officer.

DoorBird's 3D configurator allows user to design their very own customised DoorBird in just a few steps and to create specific dimensions, surfaces, and features according to their wishes. High-quality mailbox and doorbell systems are combined with IP video technology from DoorBird. Key features No matter if it’s a wall drop box, a fence-mounted mailbox, an intercom column, or a buzzer panel, every IP system is manufactured by user specifications. There are a variety of modules to select from, such as a keypad, fingerprint reader, or display. Over 50 RAL colours and surfaces are available to choose from here. DoorBird door station is displayed directly in 3D and updated, together with price and delivery time, with every step. The Augmented Reality function makes it possible to visualise the intercom where it will be installed. The comparison can be done by uploading a photo or live with an activated smartphone camera. The system and the technical drawing can be saved for the configuration later. The fully configured IP video door station can be ordered directly in the planning tool. For custom products or requests not possible in 3D Configurator’s configuration system, feel free to contact DoorBird so it can find the right solution.

Smart R Distribution has appointed Mark Russen as the Business Development Manager for its extensive range of Access Control and Intruder Detection Solutions.   Extensive work experience  Mark Russen, who has worked within the electronic security industry since 1986, is a highly experienced sales professional who has performed senior sales management roles for some of the biggest names within the sector. These include Europlex Technologies, Siemens Security Products, and Vanderbilt, (recently re-branded as Acre Security), where he provided national and international sales support for the distribution channel and key accounts.   Intruder detection “Our sales of access control systems have consistently grown year on year and with the addition of carefully selected Intruder Detection products to our product line the time is now right for us to employ a dedicated Business Development Manager to ensure we continue to offer the highest levels of pre-sales support,” said Neill Williams, Director of Smart R Distribution. He adds, “We are therefore delighted to welcome Mark to our team and we look forward to putting his experience and extensive product knowledge to very good use.” Roles and responsbilites Mark will be responsible for developing relationships with existing and potential customers Mark will be responsible for developing relationships with existing and potential customers in the process. This will help them grow their businesses by identifying new sales opportunities for the Access Control and Intruder Detection solutions supported by Smart R Distribution, including those from manufacturers such as ACT, ACRE, Authenticard, Comelit-PAC, Dahua, Farpointe Data, Fermax, HID, Intratone, Safetrust and STiD.  Advantages of the innovative technology  “I am excited to be joining a distribution company that has such an enviable reputation for its sales, logistical, and technical support,” said Mark Russen. He adds, “I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the company’s ongoing success by helping installers and system integrators ‘put the right pieces together’ and take full advantage of the innovative technology built into the very latest generation of products and systems.”

IDEMIA Group is a pioneering technology provider whose three market-pioneering businesses power mission-critical solutions based on biometrics and cryptography. Its algorithms have come top among all those tested in the Proprietary Fingerprint Template (PFT III) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) benchmark, covering all datasets and fingerprint types.  NIST’s comprehensive evaluation The datasets used on this benchmark are composed of slap or rolled fingerprints. The fingerprints were captured using multiple sensors of varied quality to check the performance levels on different devices. NIST’s comprehensive evaluation demonstrates that IDEMIA’s AFIS-class technology addresses the diversity of customer applications and optimizes set-up matching customer requirements. These technologies target police, business, and border control daily needs. Biometric fingerprint and palmprint identification IDEMIA’s technologies are the best-performing biometric fingerprint and palmprint identification, iris, and facial recognition algorithms and often feature prominently in international rankings: 1) FINGERPRINT: #1 of NIST Evaluation of Latent Fingerprints Technologies tests (ELFT) #1 in mFIT Challenge 2) FACE: #1 in Fairness for NIST Face Recognition Vendor Test (FRVT). 3) IDEMIA’s iris recognition algorithm came top of the latest NIST Iris Exchange (IREX 10) ranking. Cutting-edge algorithms "These latest fingerprint recognition results, in line with our track record to date, testify to our ability to offer cutting-edge algorithms that are both accurate and fair," said Jean-Christophe Fondeur, IDEMIA's Chief Technology Officer. "I would like to congratulate our teams of software developers, who deliver on our pledge to provide our clients the very best systems on the market."

Residential burglaries and break-ins are a problem for many homeowners. The FBI estimates there were approximately 1,117,696 burglaries in 2019 in the United States, which accounted for 16.1% of property crimes. Having proper home security can not only protect your home and belongings, but it can also keep your family safe. Even if you’re new to the idea of having and using smart home security devices, it’s easy to get started. This guide will provide the information and actionable tips you need to get started with your home security system. Why do I need a home security system? When you have a home security system, you’re able to detect a possible intrusion into your home, even when you’re not there. This detection system may help protect you, your family, and your property from various crimes, including home invasions. Property crime and theft cost Americans billions of dollars each year. Installing and using a home security system can prevent you from becoming a victim. Some homeowner insurance companies also offer customers a discount for installing a security system. Not only will you feel safer and more protected, but you could also save money in the long run. Multi-layered security system New smart security technology makes it easier than ever to monitor your home from almost anywhere Having the right home security keeps you safe, and it’ll also cause criminals to think twice before entering your home. Using the right equipment can prevent these crimes from happening to you in the first place. It’s vital to ensure that you’re using multi-layered security, including alarms, intrusion detection, cameras, and more. New smart security technology makes it easier than ever to monitor your home from almost anywhere in the world. The more barriers you can put in place between your home and potential criminals, the safer you and your family will be. Important equipment for installing a home security system Every home security system needs some fundamental pieces of equipment in order to be effective. Here are the most important items you’ll need to get started: Intrusion detection: This equipment includes the main security panel that allows you to control the system. It can be called the keypad, control panel, or security hub. The panel allows you to make changes or arm and disarm the system as needed. Door and window sensors alert you when someone tries to enter your home, as well as motion sensors that detect any unusual movement. Glass break sensors are another great piece of equipment, they recognise breaking glass, which signals the alarm if someone tries to break a window. Lighting: Even something as simple as bright exterior lighting can keep your home safer. Consider upgrading your outdoor lighting to motion-sensing lights that turn on whenever they detect movement. Add this lighting to the corners of your home, near the garage, and at the front and back doors. Cameras: Security cameras record activity in and around your home. Choose a PTZ or pan-tilt-zoom camera so you can move the camera, zoom in, and adjust it remotely for better footage. Use cameras that store the footage just in case you need to view it or show it to the police later. Some cameras include built-in memory cards, while others require payment for storage on a cloud network. A camera doorbell is another great way to keep you safe. It alerts you and records video when someone approaches your home. Monitoring: If you travel or you’re away from home frequently, enrolling in home security monitoring is a great way to protect your property. It requires a monthly fee, but this service connects to your system and keeps a watchful eye over your home when you’re not there. The authorities and you will be immediately alerted if an alarm goes off or fire is detected. This is a great way to get peace of mind whenever you’re not at home. If you’re unfamiliar with how to install any of your new pieces of security equipment, a professional installer can help. They have the skills and experience required to ensure that every piece of equipment is correctly installed and connected for the best coverage to keep you safe. Secure your Wi-Fi network with strong passwords The longer and more complex your password is, the less likely your network will be hacked by nefarious outsiders Once you have your new smart home security system installed, you’ll need to protect it from hackers. Most Wi-Fi routers aren’t immediately secure upon installation until you change the password. Make sure you’re using a strong password containing a unique mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols. Integrating capital letters will also make it more difficult for hackers to access them. The longer and more complex your password is, the less likely your network will be hacked by nefarious outsiders. It’s also crucial to ensure that your Wi-Fi network and equipment come from a trusted, reputable manufacturer with a long history of providing security to its customers. You should also double-check to see how the manufacturer uses the information it collects and if it’s being given to third parties for marketing or other purposes. Enable multi-factor authentication The term multi-factor authentication refers to the several pieces of information required from a user to access an account. This access method is put in place to protect yourself from possible breaches and verify your identity. This option is usually available with the majority of newer smart home security systems and collects more than just a password. Using multi-factor authentication may require you to scan your fingerprint or retina to ensure it’s really you trying to access the system. It may also ask for things like a numeric passcode or have you answer a security question. If this option is available to you, it’s highly recommended that you set it up. This simple additional step will help to prevent cybercriminals from trying to use your user credentials and access your profile. It’s also a great way to protect yourself from potential data breaches. Regularly update your devices Set a reminder to check the manufacturer’s website every month or so to confirm there are new updates ready Just like your smartphone or computer, your smart home security devices should be updated regularly. These new updates provide improvements to the usability of your equipment, better protection against hackers, and new hardware updates that help the equipment run smoother. Some devices will alert you when an update is available, and others won’t. Set a reminder to check the manufacturer’s website every month or so to confirm there are new updates ready. You should also pair your mobile app to your security devices and adjust the settings to turn on automatic software updates so you never miss anything. This is the best way to ensure you have all of the latest hardware upgrades and security patches. Keeping the home and family safe Use these important tips if you’re just beginning the process of installing a home security system. With the right equipment and proper protections in place, you can keep your home and family safe. Remember to install the most essential equipment, use unique passwords, and take steps to ensure that your new software and equipment are as secure as possible for peace of mind.

The growing mobile ownership rate, the emergence of more user-friendly banking apps, the tech-native younger generation, and, of late, the pandemic-induced shift to online, all create a fertile ground for mobile banking. Unfortunately, the acceleration of banking app adoption today goes hand in hand with the increase of targeted security threats. In 2022, a month wouldn’t go by without a headline-making mobile banking attack or incident that resulted in stolen funds and sensitive personal information from thousands of users. Security as an afterthought  Nevertheless, a fair share of BFSI companies persists to treat security as an afterthought during and after mobile banking app development. The 2021 State of Mobile Banking App Security report shows that 82% of enterprise executives consider mobile channels important. However, 39% of respondents did not run any vulnerability analysis or penetration tests on their mobile solutions. Five-step guide Neglecting a banking app’s security is a dead-end track that leads to severe financial repercussions In the turbulent threat landscape of today, neglecting your banking application’s security is a dead-end track that leads only to severe financial and reputational repercussions. Being banking software developers with a long-standing experience in cybersecurity, we devised a five-step guide to help financial institutions build shell-proof mobile banking apps, maintain them this way, and safeguard customers from mobile security troubles. #1: Test security throughout SDLC and beyond The safety of mobile banking is a subject of many regional and industrial standards, so companies traditionally design the security architecture of their apps around these guidelines and call it a day. While regulatory compliance is vital, financial institutions often mistakenly bank on it alone and perform security-related activities late in the SDLC. As a result, there is a good chance pre-release quality assurance (QA) can discover deeply ingrained security flaws that will require fundamental corrections. What’s even worse, if the QA fails to do so, the app will be released with inherent vulnerabilities. Threat modeling  Engineers should not only implement security controls into the source code but also review it for bugs and flaws The best way to make an app safe by design is to integrate security testing into the development lifecycle. At the start of the project, the team needs to explore relevant external and internal threats and, drawing on the analysis, specify security requirements for the application alongside functional and performance ones. At the design stage, it’s a great practice to perform threat modeling, as it allows developers to understand which elements of the app require protection most and what security controls will fit the purpose. Also, during the application development, engineers should not only implement security controls into the source code but also review it for bugs and flaws at each iteration. Thus, all vulnerabilities are rooted out immediately, before the app goes to production. #2: Implement a strong authentication layer Access control is the foundation of security, and mobile banking is no exception. By equipping an app with a proper authentication mechanism, banks ensure that only the customer is allowed to view and manage their personal funds, while third parties, malicious and not, are kept out, thus eliminating the risk of unauthorised access. Despite remaining a predominant user authentication method, passwords have long been showing their insufficiency in the modern threat landscape. Two-factor or biometric authentication Relying on physiological human characteristics to identify a person is highly accurate and spoof-proof Two-factor authentication, on the other hand, has many uses in the financial industry, and app user verification is one of them. Requiring two separate forms of identification, commonly a password and a single-use code sent via SMS, push notification, or email is still a much stronger secure option than passwords. Biometric identification is an authentication technology that gained traction only recently, but its efficiency propelled its adoption as a verification method in mobile apps across industries, with finance leading the way. Relying on physiological human characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial features, voice, or iris to identify a person, the technology is highly accurate and spoof-proof. #3: Encrypt user data and communications Financial institutions are no strangers to encryption. Most banks today leverage the virtually unbreakable 256-bit advanced encryption standard (AES) or equivalent methods to make customers’ personal and payment information inaccessible to unauthorised parties. Needless to say, a mobile banking app should incorporate similarly robust encryption mechanisms to protect user data. It can be the customary AES, but it can also be another encryption technology that fits the app’s specifics better. Transport Layer Security protocol It’s necessary to bake in specialised encryption mechanisms for securing app-to-device communication It is also important to secure the traffic between the app and the server, and the Transport Layer Security protocol (TLS) fits the bill here. Things can get more challenging if you plan on integrating your mobile app with wireless BLE and IoT technologies for proximity-based marketing, in-branch experience personalisation, and wayfinding. In this case, it’s necessary to bake in specialised encryption mechanisms for securing app-to-device communication and ward off man-in-the-middle attacks. # 4: Integrate in-app protection    In recent years, due to the growth of malware targeting applications, bank customers were increasingly plagued with malicious software of all stripes. Of course, these days, there is strict oversight over financial cybercrime, and specialised law enforcement together with private-sector IT specialists usually take prompt measures to disarm emerging malware. Nevertheless, considering the steadily growing adoption of mobile banking, malicious software targeted at new apps will continue surfacing monthly while the existing scripts will be upgraded to circumvent dedicated safeguards. In-app protection By relying on in-app protection, banks can efficiently shield their app from emerging attacks To be a step ahead of the attackers, financial institutions need to embrace a more comprehensive approach and consider bolstering source-code security controls with robust in-app protection features. Designed by cybersecurity tech companies, in-app protection is a set of tools that can be easily integrated into an application. These solutions typically include mechanisms for security monitoring and malware detection, network connection manipulation, and external tampering that vendors update on a regular basis. Thus, by relying on in-app protection, banks can efficiently shield their app from emerging attacks. #5: Raise customers’ security awareness Regrettably, after the release, your mobile banking app’s security is not completely in your hands. Users' poor choices can easily obliterate all the efforts towards building and maintaining the solution impregnable. Some can turn off biometric authentication if they see no point in it, while others can click on a phishing link because it is sent from a domain looking just like yours. Hence, it’s not enough to deliver a highly protected mobile banking solution, you should also teach users how to render their app experience safe.   Security education  Banks need to educate their customers about the benefits and dangers of trusting third parties with app credentials First and foremost, banks need to educate their customers about good mobile banking security habits, from the importance of strong passwords and the benefits of two-factor or biometric authentication to the dangers of trusting third parties with app credentials and using public networks when conducting financial operations. However, banks should present this information in a detailed but engaging way, for example through short posts or animated videos, otherwise, there are a high chance customers will not bother to pay heed to it.  Stay alert to stay secure Over the recent years, mobile banking has burgeoned, but with this growth came a whole new set of threats, exploiting apps’ inherent vulnerabilities, loose security controls, and customer unawareness, with the burden of warding them off falling on their owners. The battle for mobile banking security is ongoing, and to win it, banks need to respect security basics while also remaining open and flexible regarding emerging security tech.

Fingerprint biometrics is hugely relevant in the current landscape. Even amidst other newer developments, fingerprint authentication provides convenience and affordability. There are talks rife about how the coronavirus pandemic has changed the outlook towards fingerprint biometrics. What is currently the most used authentication technology is being speculated to be unsafe, when compared to other touchless biometrics and that its usage in the future would decrease significantly. However, the advancements being made in this sphere indicate a totally opposite view. Key takeaways The utility of fingerprint biometrics, The advancements being made in fingerprint authentication tech, and The future relevance of fingerprint biometrics. Fingerprint biometrics and its use in authentication Out of all the biometric identifiers, fingerprints have been in use the longest, probably from around the 1800s When biometric authentication had started getting attention, at the beginning of the millennium, it broke the barriers of people’s beliefs that such technology only existed in sci-fi movies. A world of opportunities had opened up for tech developers and manufacturers, and everyone wanted a piece of that cake. Out of all the biometric identifiers, fingerprints have been in use the longest, probably from around the 1800s. Newer biometrics, such as facial & iris recognition and retinal scans, were only possible once technological advances made devices that could process these identifiers. High security fingerprint recognition devices Any technological advancement depends on the development of all the sub-systems it operates with. Therefore, developing fingerprint authentication wouldn’t have been possible, without having faster fingerprint processors, thinner and more compact sensors, and more accurate and efficient firmware and algorithms. Today’s fingerprint recognition devices are more secure than their previous generations, which is why they are still widely used for authentication. As the situations and utility factors become more complex, this technology will surely continue to improve. Ongoing developments in fingerprint technology Normally, a fingerprint is obtained by scanning the surface of the skin. The efficiency of the scanner plays an important role here, where if the fingerprint isn’t clear (the finger is dusty, soiled, has cracks, is damaged), it won’t be scanned correctly and hence, won’t be authenticated. Many manufacturers have tried to neutralise this, by developing powerful scanners and processors that aren’t affected by such factors. These subsystems will also be able to prevent false authentication to a greater degree now. Dubbed Frame Grabber, fingerprint biometric system Called the Dubbed Frame Grabber, this new system can identify fingerprints that have been significantly damaged In more recent developments, a new subsurface fingerprint biometric system has been invented that can reportedly identify individuals from skin layers around 200−400 µm deep under the finger surface. Called the Dubbed Frame Grabber, this new system can identify fingerprints that have been significantly damaged, like having been burnt or have become unrecognisable due to injuries. BitFlow, a digital camera link and CoaXPress frame grabber manufacturer announced the development of this technology in 2015 and it has now reached the testing phase. The developers are keen on launching this frame grabber soon and looking at the already widespread use of fingerprint technology, it is assumed to be priced at a reasonable cost. Improved anti-fingerprint spoofing Fingerprint spoofing is basically duping a fingerprint scanner into authenticating an artificial fingerprint created by an imposter. The imposter who has access to the actual user’s fingerprint creates a fake biometric identifier, using various materials, such as paper, modeling clay, glue, etc. The earlier generation fingerprint devices couldn’t easily identify between the two, thus resulting in a higher rate of spoofing. As discussed earlier, fingerprint sensors have evolved and employ methods, such as static analysis, dynamic analysis, and AI-enhanced recognition that consider various biometric identification parameters, including sweat pores, skin flexibility, blood flow detection, etc., to distinguish a live human fingerprint from a fake model and thus, reduce the chances of fingerprint spoofing. Advancements in forensic applications There’s a new method that helps crime investigators, which is based on Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI). It can detect human blood and DNA signatures from fingerprints that are stored in the cloud storage of the forensic department. According to one of the researchers of this method, it is already in use by crime scene investigators. It is soon due for application by the police department as well and would help in quickly identifying people, saving precious time. Touchless fingerprint recognition Most of the scanners now use LEDs that keep power consumption essentially low Considering how skin contact with anything is deemed potentially dangerous due to COVID-19, a Europe-based market renowned firm in security and identity solutions has reportedly been in the process of developing a touchless fingerprint recognition system that would allow users to gain access by simply waving their fingers or hands in front of the scanner, rather than going for precise finger contact. If successful, this will be a much safer, sophisticated, and practical way of analysing fingerprint biometrics. Overall, improved hardware and software, and more efficient algorithms have drastically reduced the processing time of fingerprint identification and verification. Authentication systems are better prepared to recognise and adjust to user behaviour, and environment conditions. Most of the scanners now use LEDs that keep power consumption essentially low, as a result, improving efficiency and maintenance. Fingerprint biometrics part of routine lives of people People use fingerprint biometrics in their routine life to unlock a phone or the door to the office, verify identities, gain access to restricted/exclusive areas, etc. Biometric technology is ruling the world. in terms of affordability, scalability, and convenience. Of course, other technologies are being developed rapidly and all biometric authentication methods have their own pros and cons. However, the ease of use that fingerprint authentication has provided to people will be hard to replace. With the aforementioned developments expected to hit the market in the near future, the speculations about fingerprint authentication becoming redundant will eventually die down, welcoming a new era for this biometric identifier.

As the deal/no deal prospects of Brexit are tossed in a whirlwind of UK and EU politics, the uncertainty of the back-and-forth has broadly impacted general economic trends, and by extension, the physical security market. The new deadline for a Brexit agreement is October 31, already postponed six months from the scheduled April 12 departure date. Numbers show that Britain’s GDP shrank in the second quarter, possibly reflecting fewer exports because of Brexit uncertainty. And beyond the current indecision lies the long-term impact of a possible change in trading status between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Other issues include capital flow and labor mobility. Brexit uncertainty leading to security concerns Loss of shared information with the EU will make the UK less safe “Companies … are unclear about their future,” comments Martin Warren of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. “Companies are making decisions now about jobs, supply chains, headquarters and asset locations, incurring significant, and possibly unnecessary, cost and upheaval.” Warren fears the destructive effects of a ‘no deal’ outcome and hopes politicians will break the deadlock and restore business confidence. Security implications of Brexit extend beyond economics. Loss of shared information with the EU will make the UK less safe. Extradition across EU borders will be more difficult, and exchange of data such as fingerprints and vehicle registrations is at risk. The Irish border after Brexit is of particular concern to security professionals. Countering threat of international terrorism Robert Hall of London First and Alison Wakefield of Security Institute say the security impact of departing the EU will be long lasting and profound. “In security terms, the UK will still have to contend with international terrorism, transnational crime and the global movement of people, all challenges that require wide scale cooperation.” They add that leaving the EU will require “a significant investment in people, resources and databases to cope with the anticipated volumes of traffic through ports, airports and tunnels.” Analyst company IHS Markit earlier commented about the impact on the security industry of Brexit’s drag on the UK economy, “Access control, intruder and fire alarm markets typically track construction rates closely and are forecast to be affected most. However, a large cut to infrastructure spending would be just as damaging to the video surveillance market.” UK security companies prefer ‘soft exit’ from EU If a ‘soft exit’ trade deal is not negotiated, the UK would have to revert to WTO trade rules If a ‘soft exit’ trade deal is not negotiated, the UK would have to revert to World Trade Organisation (WTO) trade rules, which means tariffs on trade between the UK and the EU, says IHS Markit. There are five British-based access-control and intruder-alarm vendors supplying the European market in significant quantity – each with revenue exceeding $10 million. IHS Markit estimates these companies combined account for less than 10 percent of total European, Middle-Eastern and African (EMEA) market revenues for both industries.  Uncertain future of UK security marketplace Asset protection specialist VPS Security Services has warned that the ongoing Brexit saga will likely lead to a rise in vacant commercial and residential properties as developers and investors are more reluctant to move forward with their UK real estate strategies. Seemingly endless machinations and shifting proposals are making the eventual outcome of Brexit very much a guessing game. Uncertainty translates into a volatile and changing outlook, and the eventual impact on the broader economy is an open question. As a reflection of that economy, the security marketplace will inevitably feel the economic impact, too, not to mention the new security challenges likely to ensue.

“These are children. There is no reason to scan a kid. Just because the government can do this is no reason the government should be doing this.” The impassioned argument, quoted by The Florida Current, comes from a Florida state legislator who introduced a bill aimed at stopping public school systems from collecting biometric data on children. The ominous-sounding practice actually has a practical side – use of a fingerprint or palm scan can enable a school system to get thousands of students through a lunch line in a short period of time. The schools have found a quick fingerprint scan is faster, and more secure, than use of an identity card or PIN number. The system has been used in 83 schools for several years in one district and reflects an investment of $300,000, according to the newspaper. The system could also be used to identify parents, employees and volunteers, which could help to prevent strangers from sneaking into a school function.  It may fall to those in the security market who understand the technology to provide the needed information to defuse concerns The proposed bill, which is “pending reference review,” would provide for parental notification of data collected on students by schools. (It also would require the school to phase out Social Security numbers, replaced by a unique ID number developed by the state Department of Education.) I'm not sure exactly what the problem is with “scanning a kid,” as long as there are no adverse health effects, a concern I am sure has been addressed (and in any case was not an argument presented in Florida against the technology). I don't have a problem with parental notification; it's the underlying attitude toward technology implied in the bill that I find troubling. As I understand it, the intent of biometric systems is to confirm an identity. A student enrols in the system with a fingerprint or palm print scan, and the system stores only data points from that scan, which are compared with data points when the individual uses the system again. The system doesn't actually store a complete fingerprint, and there is no massive centralized database of children's fingerprints that could be stolen or otherwise compromised. If I'm wrong, someone correct me – please. Too often, negative responses to technology are based on misunderstanding. Emotions can get in the way of information. It may fall to those in the security market who understand the technology to provide the needed information to defuse concerns. UPDATE: Florida’s Senate Bill 188, which imposes a blanket prohibition on the use of biometric identification technology within the Florida public school system, was signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott on May 12, 2014. This despite a letter from the Security Industry Association opposing the bill. SIA’s letter read in part: “While SIA understands the legislature’s concern for protecting the privacy of Florida students, we are troubled that widespread misperceptions about the nature and use of biometrics technology has enabled passage of the bill without a thorough debate examining the student safety and local economic implications — and despite any reported cases of identity theft or misuse of information collected by such systems.” 

Biometrics company, Fingerprint Cards AB (Fingerprints™), has upgraded the physical access security of its Gothenburg HQ. S-Key biometric access cards from Freevolt Technologies Limited, which embed Fingerprints’ own T2 sensors, have been implemented across the entire Gothenburg site. The updated authentication system further strengthens Fingerprints’ workplace security and enables role-based access control, whilst ensuring a convenient and easy-to-use experience. Role-based access control Fingerprints’ Gothenburg HQ has security gates to enter and exit the building, and restricted areas for hardware and software R&D. By replacing access keyfobs with biometrics access cards, site-wide security has been enhanced and role-based access control has been enabled to better control access to sensitive areas of the site. By replacing traditional security methods based on something they know/have with something they are, multi-factor authentication has been enabled while maintaining convenience for employees. Fingerprints’ latest ‘T2’ sensors Solution eliminates the security risk of lost or stolen cards, without adding infrastructure costs Caroline Krüger, CHRO of Fingerprints comments: “The workplace has evolved significantly in recent years. At Fingerprints, we offer hybrid working whilst still ensuring our workforce has 24/7 access to HQ. Amidst this dynamic working environment, it is essential our team feels the workplace is accessible and safe. This requires a flexible, secure and convenient access control solution.” Fingerprints has implemented Freevolt’s flagship biometric access card solution, S-Key. The solution eliminates the security risk of lost or stolen cards, without adding infrastructure costs. The card incorporates Fingerprints’ latest ‘T2’ sensors which deliver optimised image quality, processing speed and power efficiency. Traditional security methods Adam Philpott, CEO of Fingerprints comments: “To meet today’s security challenges we must move away from traditional security methods. And, as a biometrics company, it is important that we lead the way in ensuring robust, frictionless security in our own operations." "There is an opportunity here too; what can we learn, what innovations will we identify by using these systems day to day? I look forward to continuing our strong and innovative collaboration with Freevolt technologies.” Energy harvesting technology Gonzalo de Gisbert, Head of Product & Business Development at Freevolt Technologies, adds: “Fingerprints are pioneers in biometrics, with sensors in billions of products, so they know what makes a good biometric solution. We’re therefore thrilled that Fingerprints has chosen S-Key to strengthen security at their global headquarters, in Gothenburg." "Our pioneering radio frequency energy harvesting technology combined with Fingerprints’ ‘T2’ sensors, known as FPC 1323, enables S-Key to be completely battery-less, lasting for many years. Roll-out was seamless, with everyone set up in less than 1 hour. That’s simple, safe, and secure biometrics, powered by Freevolt.”

Situated in Vadodara, Gujarat, India, this venerable university stands as one of the oldest in the country, tracing its roots back to 1881. Honouring a forward-thinking ruler, it has evolved into a prominent public institution that provides a diverse array of academic programmes spanning arts, sciences, engineering, and management. Dedicated to delivering top-notch education and cultivating a culture of research and innovation, the university features a sprawling campus and holds a distinguished position for its commitment to excellence in the realm of Indian education.  Project overview  Confronted with a significant hurdle in the form of a competitor's attendance tracking system for its teaching staff, the university embarked on a quest for a more precise and streamlined method to record daily attendance across its various campuses. The primary goal was to establish a centralised platform dedicated to attendance management, focusing on improving employee access to attendance records and facilitating efficient leave request management. A key consideration was the necessity for a tailored provision to accommodate professors frequently moving A key consideration was the necessity for a tailored provision to accommodate professors frequently moving across campuses for lecture commitments. This case study explores the university's journey in pursuit of a robust attendance management solution catering to 3000 users, addressing specific challenges and optimising operational efficiency.  University challenges  The university encountered significant challenges in ensuring the smooth operation of its Attendance Management System, including:  Inefficiency in the Existing Attendance Management Solution: The university grappled with issues stemming from an ineffective competitor's attendance management system, adding complexity rather than facilitating streamlined operations. This inefficiency extended to the complexities of managing attendance across diverse faculties, further complicating university-level payroll processing.  Inconsistencies in Daily Attendance Recording for Teaching Staff: A crucial necessity for the university was the seamless daily recording of professors' attendance. The imperative for a well-organised system became evident to ensure accurate tracking and efficient payroll management.  Lack of Proper Attendance Management Across Multiple Campuses: With campuses spread across different locations, the university faced the pressing need to centralise attendance data. This centralisation was crucial for the effective management of attendance records across all campus locations.  Delayed Data Transmission from Devices: The existing solution encountered difficulties as punch data from devices experienced delays in reaching the system promptly. This lag resulted in complications, necessitating manual synchronization efforts to rectify the issue.  Employee Accessibility Issues for Attendance Data and Leave Management: Staff members encountered limitations in accessing their attendance data through the current system. Furthermore, the absence of support for submitting leave requests contributed to inefficient leave management practices, prompting a demand for more effective solutions.  Faced with these operational challenges, the university embarked on a quest for innovative solutions to improve its attendance management processes' overall efficiency and effectiveness.  Matrix's solution  To address the critical issues faced by the client, Matrix successfully implemented a comprehensive solution that effectively resolved the organisational challenges they were encountering.  Matrix executed its Attendance Management System to achieve:  Deployment of a Comprehensive Attendance Management System: Matrix effectively implemented an enterprise-grade Time-Attendance Solution, successfully tackling the client's organisational hurdles in attendance management. This solution streamlined the entire attendance process, simplifying complexities across various campuses.  Seamless Attendance Recording for Teaching Staff: Matrix introduced biometric devices across different faculties, enabling effortless attendance logging for teaching staff. The widespread availability of devices ensured accurate tracking and efficient payroll management.  Centralised Attendance Management Across Multiple Campuses: Matrix established a centralised solution for attendance management, consolidating data from various campuses. This centralised approach facilitated effective control and oversight of attendance across diverse locations.  Automated Data Transmission from Devices: Matrix Time-Attendance terminals were equipped with automated data push technology. This feature ensured timely and automated data transfer from devices to the server, eliminating the need for manual synchronisation and enhancing operational efficiency.  User-Friendly Employee Self-Service Portal: Matrix provided a comprehensive solution, including an Employee Self-Service portal. This portal enabled users to access attendance data on their devices and submit leave requests. With its hierarchy-based approval system, Matrix streamlined the leave management process.  Improved efficiency The innovative solutions offered by Matrix not only resolved the client's challenges but also significantly enhanced attendance operations, promoting improved efficiency throughout the organisation.  This case study highlights Matrix's capability to tailor solutions to meet unique client needs, ultimately optimising business processes.  Results acheived Matrix successfully streamlined the entire process, introducing clarity in payroll processing and simplifying attendance Matrix's deployment of its Enterprise-grade Time-Attendance Solution brought about a remarkable transformation in the operations of the historic university based in Vadodara.  Confronting challenges posed by an inefficient attendance management system, Matrix successfully streamlined the entire process, introducing clarity in payroll processing and simplifying attendance tracking across diverse faculties. The use of Matrix biometric devices facilitated seamless attendance marking for teaching staff, contributing to efficient payroll management.  Centralised attendance management The implementation of a centralised attendance management system across multiple campuses significantly improved control and efficiency in handling attendance data. Matrix addressed delays in data transmission by deploying terminals equipped with automated data push technology, eliminating the need for manual synchronisation.  Employee Self-Service Portal Matrix's provision of a hierarchy-based approval system streamlined the client’s leave management requirements Furthermore, the implementation included a user-friendly Employee Self-Service Portal, allowing staff to effortlessly view attendance data and submit leave requests. Matrix's provision of a hierarchy-based approval system streamlined the client’s leave management requirements. These tailored solutions markedly enhanced operational efficiency, resulting in a more streamlined, accurate, and transparent organisational operation. Matrix's success in optimising attendance processes underscores its commitment to delivering innovative solutions tailored to the unique requirements of its clients.  Products offered COSEC VEGA FOT: Fingerprint and RFID card-based Time-Attendance Terminal COSEC CENTRA PLT: Platform-based User Licence COSEC CENTRA TAM: User Licence for Time-Attendance Management COSEC CENTRA ESS: User Licence for Employee Self-Service Management

On the occasion of INTERPOL’s 91st General Assembly – and 100th anniversary – the world’s largest international police organisation announces the launch of its enhanced BioHUB, powered by IDEMIA’s newest Multibiometric Identification System (MBIS). Multibiometric Identification System This latest version, MBIS 5, integrates new generation algorithms, which provide a higher matching accuracy rate with a shorter response time and a more user-friendly interface. The first phase of its deployment to enhance the identification of potential Persons of Interest (POIs) for police investigations has already been operational since October 2023. The second phase, which will be rolled out over the next two years, will extend this tool to border control points. The system will then be able to perform up to 1 million forensic searches per day, including fingerprints, palm prints and portraits, making it the top performing automated biometric identification system on the market. Cutting-edge technology to help law enforcement IDEMIA still leads the biometric tech race covering iris, fingerprint and face recognition IDEMIA’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its consistently top-ranked identity and security technologies. IDEMIA still leads the biometric tech race covering iris, fingerprint and face recognition. NIST’s (National Institute of Standards and Technology) latest test results underscore IDEMIA’s outstanding expertise and solutions combining efficiency, accuracy and equity. INTERPOL, creating a safer world INTERPOL currently has 196 member countries and enables law enforcement agencies from around the world to work together to make the world a safer place. INTERPOL’s high-tech infrastructure of technical and operational support helps meet the growing challenge of combating crime in the 21st century. Facial recognition is an important and rapidly evolving technology that has opened up many new opportunities to identify individuals and solve crimes. In 2016, INTERPOL opted for IDEMIA’s advanced facial recognition capabilities to create the INTERPOL Face Recognition System (IFRS). INTERPOL Face Recognition System (IFRS) The IFRS contains face images from more than 170 countries, and since its launch, thousands of terrorists, criminals, fugitives, POIs, and missing persons have been identified. In 2019, INTERPOL renewed its contract with IDEMIA to upgrade the current system and transform it into a Multibiometric Identification System (MBIS). IDEMIA and INTERPOL first began their collaboration in 1999, when IDEMIA delivered the original Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) AFIS was designed to make cooperation easier between police forces from member countries The Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) was designed to make cooperation easier between police forces from member countries, by giving them access to global police tools and services, namely forensics, fingerprint evidence and the exchange of forensic data to support international investigations. Through AFIS, authorised users in member countries can view, submit, and cross-check these records using INTERPOL’s secure global police communications network. IDEMIA and INTERPOL share enhanced partnership Cyril Gout, INTERPOL’s Director of Operational Support and Analysis, said “In the same way that criminals use ever more innovative and sophisticated ways to avoid detection, law enforcement must also leverage the latest advances in technology, especially in biometric security, to better combat all forms of transnational crime. INTERPOL’s enhanced partnership with IDEMIA will further help our member countries better protect their borders and communities.” Matt Cole, Group Executive Vice President, Public Security and Identity at IDEMIA, said “IDEMIA is proud to be collaborating with INTERPOL again and to continue making the world a safer place for all. This project reinforces our longstanding partnership with INTERPOL, which has been going strong for over 20 years.” INTERPOL receives delivery of the new MBIS Matt Cole adds, “With the delivery of the new MBIS, developed thanks to our strong dedication to R&D, INTERPOL will have access to cutting-edge fingerprint, palm print and face identification technologies, enabling it and member countries to identify persons of interest faster than ever before.” He continues, “We look forward to many more years of supporting INTERPOL to ensure the safety of potentially billions of citizens around the world.”

Continental Tyres ranks among the top 5 automotive suppliers worldwide. With their expertise in mobility, transport, and processing, they keep development as a foreword to bettering the world.  Since bringing in the first tread pattern tyre in the world, they strive for automotive safety for the last 140 years.  Need for access control system The major challenge that the factory faced was that without an access control system, the entire asset and materials were unsecured and easily accessible to all employees without any restriction. This is especially concerning as securing a shutter and its accompanying door needed to be managed simultaneously. Moreover, with the shutter being imported from Germany, Many OEMs were finding it tough to integrate it alongside other access control solutions.  An all-out solution Matrix took up the mantle to solve their troubles once and for all with an all-out solution to manage their security concerns for the door as well as the shutter. This solution involved the installation of COSEC VEGA FAX, for providing authorisation to a prescribed set of employees. Furthermore, to maintain proper and consolidated access logs, Matrix helped the management to keep a real-time track at their required endpoint.  Management control With the intervention of Matrix, this factory unit of Continental Tyres could easily secure its premises as well as assets. This, in combination with, the timely logs of those who accessed gives the management proper control over the rights to entry. This also helps in getting a real-time update on people accessing the area as required by the client.  Products offered  COSEC VEGA FAX: Fingerprint and Card-based Door Controller with Touchscreen, IP65, Wi-Fi, and 3G/4G Connectivity Option. COSEC CENTRA PLATFORM: Platform Licence for COSEC CENTR. COSEC CENTRA PLT10: 10 Platform Users Licence for COSEC CENTRA. COSEC CENTRA ACM10: 10 Access Control Users Licence for COSEC CENTRA.

Swiss Arabian is the pioneer of Arabian perfumes that spans over 40 years. Over the years, the Swiss Arabian Perfumes Group has grown from strength to strength. Currently, it stands tall as the first perfume manufacturer in the UAE. They operate five modern manufacturing facilities spread across an area of 165,000 sq. ft., producing more than 35 million perfumes annually and exporting the same to over 80 countries. Challenges Swiss Arabian has a prominent presence across several cities in the UAE. Considering this, centralised data management of the employee attendance details, from all the units was critical. Besides, overtime calculation and managing rollover shifts were tedious tasks as well. Furthermore, verifying the attendance data with detailed reports, bifurcated by locations was a part of their key requirements. Solution Time-Attendance solution assists them in procuring accurate attendance details of an employee in no time Matrix addressed these challenges by proposing a Door Controller at each location, connected via a centralised platform, COSEC CENTRA, to manage all the data, from one place. This Time-Attendance solution assists them in procuring accurate attendance details of an employee in no time! Web-based employee portal Through the web-based employee portal, the solution offers efficient leave and shift management. Furthermore, it helped the HR team generate customised reports most efficiently. Results Centralised and effortless attendance management of multiple locations. Streamlined shift allocation and automated shift correction. Customised attendance policy formation. Real-time alert on attendance events. Auto-scheduled reporting. Efficient employee database management. Improved productivity. Products offered COSEC VEGA FAX: Fingerprint and Card-based Door Controller with Wi-Fi and Internet Connectivity Options. COSEC DOOR FOT: Optical Fingerprint and RFID Card-based Door Controller for Time-Attendance. COSEC PATH DCFM: Optical Fingerprint and RFID Card based Door Controller for Time-Attendance & Access Control. COSEC CENTRA PLT: Application Software Platform. COSEC CENTRA ESS: Employee Self-Service Portal for Attendance Management. COSEC CENTRA TAM: Time-Attendance and Leave Management Module for COSEC Software Platform. COSEC CENTRA ACM: Access Control Application Software for Enterprises.

Rishikul Vidyapeeth takes special pride in providing excellent education to students up to XII standard. Spread across an area of 42 acres. It has two more schools under the Rishikul Vidyapeeth group namely Rishikul Vidyapeeth - Jagos Bhaghpat, UP, and Rishikul Vidyapeeth, Alipur. Modern infrastructure All school campuses are having modern infrastructures with aesthetically maneouvered activity areas, sprawling playgrounds, acoustic auditoria, and a fully automated campus. It provides a great opportunity for students to grow with their efficient faculties and other staff members.  Project highlights Application: Time-Attendance  Locations: 3 (Uttar Pradesh, India)  Reader: Fingerprint (with Sensor)  Industry: Education  Users: 1,000+  Challenge  The Institute was looking for a comprehensive time-attendance solution for tracking the staff movement Managing staff attendance from a central place has been a major challenge for the organisation. The Institute was looking for a comprehensive time-attendance solution for tracking the staff movement at different locations from a central place. Moreover, they also needed instant SMS notifications for events like missing in/out punch, and attendance summaries to have a thorough check.  Matrix offering Matrix has offered a comprehensive Time-Attendance solution for managing attendance and tracking staff movement from a central location.  Matrix has installed ten fingerprint-based Time-Attendance terminals at three different locations. All these devices are connected via LAN with the COSEC CENTRA server installed at Rishikul Vidyapeeth, Sonepat.  COSEC CENTRA server integration Users are updated instantly on different events like missing in/out punch and attendance summary HR can track the attendance of the whole staff from a central location and can generate different types of customised reports in different le formats. For their instant SMS notification requirement, Matrix has integrated the COSEC CENTRA server with the SMS web server. Hence users are updated instantly on different events like missing in/out punch, and attendance summary, as it occurs. Solution scenario Results Through its Time-Attendance Solution, Matrix helped them in achieving:  Efficient Time-Attendance Management. Improved Accuracy in Attendance Calculation with SMS Notification. Appropriate User Database Management. Centralised Monitoring and Control. Increased Productivity. Customised Reports as and when required.

Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?

Headlines of violence in our schools are a reminder of the need to keep educational institutions safe. In fact, if there is a positive aspect to the constant bombardment of headlines, it is that it keeps our attention perpetually focused on how to improve school security. But what is the role of physical security systems? As the new school year begins, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Are schools safer because of physical security systems? Why or why not? 

Historically, the emphasis of security systems has been on reactivity, whether it’s providing video evidence of an incident or data to support a resulting investigation. Reactivity is core to impactful security, but increasingly, systems are also seeking to be more proactive. A proactive system seeks to prevent events from happening in the first place, thus mitigating the harm to an organisation, and making the need for a reactive response moot. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security systems be proactive? Please provide a couple of examples.