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Why on earth do some people think that biometrics are a form of authentication?

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Steve Riley's recent post links to a Myth Busters demonstration of three different techniques to beat an "Unbreakable" biometric door lock.

I presume that the best practise advice from the lock's manufacturer recommended including a form of authentication such as a PIN to compliment the biometric device.

The Mythbusters video itself is pretty compelling - the link's on Steve's post.

Even when used as a form of IDENTIFICATION it's necessary to ensure a controlled environment whereby the individual actually presents a valid identifier. With the exception of passport control it's unlikely to make sense for a human being to observe each use of the device to ensure people play by the rules. Human beings are fallable too but perhaps I should stop there...

Comments

  • Anonymous
    January 01, 2003
    Andy> Interesting. They're using the biometric device as a form of identification though without a form of authentication it's of limited trustworthiness. How many drinkers would make the effort to circumvent the devices?

  • Anonymous
    October 25, 2006
    Hi, Given that this isn't the first time you've posted regarding people seeing biometrics as authentication instead of identity, what do you make of the Yeovil pub scheme -http://www.silicon.com/publicsector/0,3800010403,39163503,00.htm?