Tags: Fingerprint

Biometric Authentication Methods – A Comparative Study

Posted by Kevin Ells on Posted in Biometrics, Digital ID Tagged , , , ,

Introduction

Biometric authentication is revolutionizing digital identity security, providing robust and reliable verification methods. In this chapter, we will compare the most common biometric authentication methods: fingerprint scanning, iris recognition, voice recognition, and facial recognition. We can gain insights into their effectiveness and applications in various scenarios by examining their benefits and challenges.

Fingerprint Scanning

Fingerprint scanning is one of the most prevalent biometric identification methods – being in use for nearly 50 years. Its reliability, simplicity, and relative acceptance make it a popular choice. Companies like NEC have developed advanced fingerprint identification solutions that offer high-speed and high-accuracy authentication. With their expertise in this technology, NEC continues to refine and innovate fingerprint scanning for enhanced security.

Iris Recognition

Iris recognition leverages the unique patterns in the colored part of the eye, ensuring a highly secure biometric technology. Its non-invasive nature allows for easy adoption, even for individuals wearing glasses or contact lenses. NEC’s iris recognition technology provides accurate identification, contributing to its prominence in biometric authentication.

Voice Recognition

Voice recognition has increased in popularity the last decade with the increase in remote audio provided the ability to authenticate someone without them being physically present. While this is a less reliable method as a standalone system due to factors like background noise or illness, it can be valuable when combined with other biometric and authentication techniques. NEC’s voice recognition technology seamlessly integrates with other systems to deliver robust security solutions. By leveraging voice recognition as part of a multimodal approach, enhanced accuracy and authentication confidence can be achieved.

Facial Recognition

Facial recognition technology is rapidly emerging as a leading biometric authentication method. Its non-contact nature, user-friendliness, and artificial intelligence (AI) advancements have propelled its popularity. Facial recognition can work from a distance, making it convenient and applicable in various scenarios. As discussed in Chapter 3, NEC has made significant strides in facial recognition, harnessing AI advancements to provide accurate and efficient authentication solutions.

Comparative Study

While each biometric authentication method has its strengths, they also come with unique challenges businesses need to manage. Fingerprint and iris scans require user contact or close proximity, which may not always be feasible or desirable in certain situations. In addition, consumers have shown not to be willing to provide these biometrics in non-law enforcement or secure access use cases. On the other hand, voice and facial recognition can work from a distance, offering consumer convenience and accessibility. However, new advances in AI voice cloning plus ambient noise can affect and/or compromise voice recognition systems. Facial recognition’s biggest challenge tends to be with changes in lighting conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial in selecting the most suitable authentication method for a given context.

The Role of NEC in Biometric Authentication

NEC , a leader in biometric technology, recognizes the diverse needs and requirements of different authentication methods. They continuously innovate to overcome limitations and enhance the strengths of each method. Through their expertise and commitment to research and development, NEC offers a range of biometric authentication solutions that cater to the unique challenges of fingerprint scanning, iris recognition, voice recognition, and facial recognition.

Conclusion and Link to the Series

As we navigate further into the digital age, the importance of robust and reliable biometric authentication methods becomes increasingly apparent. In our ongoing series, we will explore the role of biometric technology in specific sectors, starting with its impact on the fintech industry in the next chapter. Join us as we delve deeper into the applications and benefits of biometric authentication in various domains.

References/Resources

Throughout this series, we draw upon information from reputable sources, industry research, and the expertise of companies like NEC, a global leader in advanced biometric solutions. For further exploration, we recommend visiting NEC’s website (https://nectoday.com/) to access insightful articles, case studies, and updates on the latest advancements in biometric authentication.

All Chapters –

How Biometrics Can Safeguard Digital ID for Government Agencies

Posted by Eugene le Roux on Posted in Biometrics, Conference, Government, Law Enforcement, Security Tagged , , , , , ,

An increasingly digital society requires governments to prioritize the use of biometrics when facilitating common services. This includes digital identity programs, which use tools like face recognition to provide increased security and convenience in daily life. Such biometric tools can be a force for good, so long as they follow a security-centered roadmap defined by authentication, accessibility, interoperability, and data protection. Forward-thinking government agencies looking toward a digital transformation should consider these key factors as they make the change.

A national framework encompassing these four pillars is needed to ensure systems are secure, accurate, and accessible NEC’s Digital Identity Platform is built according to these same standards. It is highly accurate, prioritizes privacy and is trusted by numerous government agencies.

Learn more from Eugene le Roux, Vice President of Digital Government, about why NEC Advanced Recognition Systems is advocating for a federal framework to ensure that independent systems meet interoperability and privacy standards in the first edition of thought-provoking blogs titled, “Government’s Role in the Growing Digital ID Market.” Or you can contact NEC to visualize your Digital ID solution and begin your journey toward transformation.

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Identity Reimagined at 106th IAI Conference

Posted by Eugene le Roux on Posted in Biometrics, Conference, Government, Law Enforcement, Security Tagged , , , ,

Fans of investigative TV shows may feel like they’re up on the latest technologies about forensic evidence and crime scene processing, but the real pros were at the International Association for Identification (IAI) Conference.

The 106th IAI Conference was held July 31 – August 6, 2022, at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska. As the world’s largest organized industry event, the conference featured cutting-edge forensics and biometric technology for law enforcement, state and local government and other agencies focused on public safety.

Transforming Public Safety and Security with Identification Technologies

We were honored to be a leading sponsor at the IAI Conference, including a booth that was front and center of the exhibition hall. Our theme, “Identity Reimagined,” spotlighted NEC’s Digital Platform and the latest advancements to revolutionize law enforcement investigations.

Knowing the law enforcement and biometric community wants hands-on demos, each section of our booth was highly interactive and educational, featuring:

  • Integrated Biometric Workstation (IBW) – Designed for ease of use, NEC’s IBW can be operated with a tablet, enabling forensic examiners to identify more offenders faster, for more efficient, effective crime solving.
  • SmartScan™ Station – A sleek, scalable, secure and easy to manage fingerprint, palm print, facial and iris livescan kiosk.
  • RapidHit – Simple, single sample real-time rapid DNA analyzer allows collection and processing of arrestee cheek swab or evidence sample in 90 minutes.
  • NeoFace® Reveal – Face recognition platform that reliably captures, enhances, organizes and matches video and graphic images to specific individuals.
  • Mobile WAY – A unified cloud platform for rapid search of federal, state and local law enforcement biometric database. The subscription-based Software as a Service (SaaS) model makes Mobile WAY cost-effective for any size agency.

Protecting the Public with Biometric Technology

With more than 1,000 biometric authentication systems in approximately 70 countries and regions around the world, NEC is a trusted partner that state and local government can rely on to help protect communities and ensure public safety.

In fact, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) matching algorithm recognition benchmarks have consistently proven that NEC’s biometric technologies have the fastest and most accurate face and fingerprint recognition algorithm. NIST also recognizes NEC with the most resilient facial recognition technologies for viewing low angles, low resolution images and poor image quality.

We were excited to share successes and best practices at the IAI Conference and look forward to next year’s event!

Discover more and schedule a demo or contact us directly.

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Blazing Trails in Biometrics and Digital Identity for Law Enforcement at the 35th Annual IBA User Conference

Posted by John Dowden on Posted in Biometrics, Law Enforcement Tagged , , , , , ,

Recently, we hosted our annual International Biometrics Association (IBA) Users’ Conference at The Westin Dallas Fort Worth in Irving, Texas. My sincere gratitude goes out to everyone who helped to plan an exciting ‘comeback conference’ post COVID-19 that included an educational program, interactive exhibit showroom and informative product updates and presentations.

As a side note, I would like to point out how much I enjoyed that the conference was in person with almost 80 new and longtime attendees. I think we can all agree that we accomplish so much more with in-person meetings and networking!

This year’s conference focus was on the new risks and challenges faced by law enforcement and public safety officials. Now, officers and first-responders alike must have their health and safety protected on-the-go. Several conference attendees have faced tremendous adversity in recent months. The awards and evening activities were an opportunity to recognize their hard work and dedication to public safety.

Awards and Evening Activities

These award recipients were nominated by their peers with their cases being solved using NEC technology. Please join me in extending another round of congratulations to the following individuals:

IBA Biometric Hit of The Year Award Recipients:

  • 2020, Detective Earl Fisher, Arizona Department of Transportation
  • 2021, Shannon Pounders, Virginia State Police
  • 2021, Detective Dennis Luis, Phoenix Police Department

NEC Employee of The Year:

  • 2020, Dennis O’Neil, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
  • 2021, Jessica Fuchino, NEC

Technology Solutions and Products Highlights

At the conference we were excited to share updates to help solve or minimize these challenges. Our conference sessions included updates on the latest technology trends such as facial recognition, personal safety and the rapid collection of DNA during livescan arrest bookings and contactless fingerprint capture. With the announcement that NEC Face Recognition has again ranked first in the world by NIST, biometrics technology was the hot topic of the conference.

Product highlights revealed NEC solutions for:

  • Mobile-friendly contactless capture and rapid multi-agency search of biometric databases with NEC Mobile WAY
  • Livescan biometrics technology for multimodal images with NEC SmartScan including integrated Rapid DNA Collection
  • Field-tested id management and scene processing with NEC Digital Platform
  • Faster identification of offenders and greater precision of latent investigation for effective crime-solving with NEC Integra-ID Biometric Workstation

Please take a minute to watch the video recap and view the picture gallery from the conference.  

I would like to give a special thanks to the Irving Police Department for serving as the host police department at this year’s event. They were instrumental in creating an inviting environment for conference attendees and brought a Texas-sized level of southern charm and hospitality.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the 2022 IBA Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana where we plan to continue to partner and bring innovative solutions to law enforcement agencies and invest in biometrics, digital identity and multimodal recognition solutions.

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Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Fill out the form, and we will get back with you.

Livescan That’s Truly More Efficient, Hygienic, and Affordable

Posted by John Dowden on Posted in Biometrics, Law Enforcement Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a higher priority has been placed on creating more hygienic workplaces and public spaces to prevent the spread of the disease. Corrections and law enforcement officers, public safety workers, courtroom professionals, and all employees supporting law enforcement and legal systems must take greater measures to protect themselves and the public.

For instance, potential COVID-19 outbreaks in our nation’s jails and prisons can put incarcerated individuals, the correctional workforce and surrounding communities at risk. In response to this danger, leaders and employees of correctional facilities have been tasked to combat the crisis in a way that protects the health, safety, and well-being of all individuals.

SmartScan®, NEC’s livescan solution, helps improve and verify the quality of biometric images, including fingerprints, palmprints, faces, irises, and even scars, marks, and tattoos (SMT). In addition to providing law enforcement with the most accurate and easy-to-operate solution in the industry, SmartScan also offers a hygienic user experience through our optional NEC NeoFace® face recognition technology for biometric logon and identity verification. With multiple configuration options to meet various budgetary requirements, NEC’s SmartScan truly is the most affordable, hygienic, and intuitive solution on the market today.

DID YOU KNOW… NEC’s SmartScan has a proven track record in numerous livescan deliveries, including Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Texas Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Huntsville Police Department, Alabama Atmore Police Department, and Alabama Mobile County Sheriff’s Office!

Automated, Accurate, and Efficient

The problem with livescan systems today is that they haven’t changed much in 20 years. They suffer from an obsolete design, outdated user interface, lack of security features, and poor maintainability.

NEC’s SmartScan is different. It has an intuitive user interface leveraging the built-in capabilities of Microsoft® Windows® 10, such as modern pinch-and-zoom and swipe features that effortlessly guide livescan operators through the image capture process. Other benefits include:

  • Auto-capture function – Dramatically speeds up the image capture process.
  • Superior image quality – Captures high quality images for accurate search.
  • Rapid processing – NEC’s biometric image processing tool provides immediate feedback, making it easy and fast for operators to review and ensure the quality of captured images.
  • Intuitive user interface – Visually guides operators through the capture process, making it easier, faster, and more automated.
  • Easy integration – Can be integrated into existing criminal history, records management, and jail management systems.
  • Convenient and flexible web client – Facilitates system administration and configuration management.

A closer look at NEC’s SmartScan

DID YOU KNOW… NEC’s SmartScan offers face recognition as an option to create a touchless, more hygienic experience, even with face masks on!

Hygienic and Safe

With the awareness brought about by COVID-19, public safety workers are seeking potential ways to reduce the spread of coronaviruses and other pathogens that may surface in the future. NEC’s SmartScan supports this goal by offering a more hygienic approach, including:

  • Flat (4-4-2) fingerprints instead of rolled fingerprints – Speeds the process and reduces contact time for livescan operators and the individuals being processed.
  • Responsive touchscreen – even while wearing gloves.
  • Optional use of face recognition to avoid contact –
    • Operator biometric logon
    • Subject verification
  • Built-in foot pedals – Provides another option in the capture of fingerprints, palmprints, and other biometric images instead of touching screen, making it more sanitary for operators.

Affordable and Solid Return on Investment

Most agencies are facing budget constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic. NEC is proud of the affordability of our SmartScan solution, offering flexible options to meet budgetary and operational demands. For example, SmartScan is available in multiple configurations, including a ruggedized cabinet with a large display. Desktop and portable options are also available to meet all funding requirements.

Taking it one step further, through our flexible leasing programs, NEC can not only help eliminate the need for a large upfront payment, we can also help deliver the solution with affordable monthly payments. Furthermore, NEC offers GSA pricing and other intermediary pricing schedules to avoid the cumbersome procurement process, making it easy to own a SmartScan.

Working within your funding constraints, NEC offers flexible customer support and service options, including onsite, remote, or assist-as-needed, to better meet your operational and budget needs.

Why NEC’s SmartScan

NEC’s award-winning solutions are backed by rigorous research and development (R&D), including more than $1.2 billion invested in R&D annually. Our biometric algorithms have been validated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in comprehensive evaluations, including:

  • Eight consecutive wins in NIST evaluations for fingerprint matching
  • Five consecutive wins in NIST evaluation for face recognition
  • Ranked number 1 in NIST evaluation for iris recognition

As a Fortune Global 500 company with 120 years of experience and technology expertise, NEC offers the fastest and most accurate face recognition and fingerprint matching algorithms. In addition, our face recognition technology is the most resilient for low resolution and poor-quality images. We currently have over 64,000 patents and over 700 large-scale biometric solutions installed in more than 70 countries. We are here today and tomorrow to support your mission-critical operations!

NEC’s SmartScan solution streamlines processing and captures superior quality digital biometric images in far less time and with fewer rejected scans. To learn more about SmartScan, you can explore here.