With more transactions occurring online, the number of data breaches taking place is continually rising. Biometrics is certainly a possible solution for the secure authentication of data. Biometrics is the measurement and statistical analysis of people’s unique physical and behavioural characteristics. This method is not yet ‘mainstream’, but many internet users identify with the advantages biometrics provide. However, if you are already doing identification via fingerprint, voice, eye scan or facial recognition, security risks are still ever-present.

In today’s digitized world, customers are rapidly switching to purchasing goods online with the result that their personal data is more susceptible to potential breaches. Biometrics is a potential solution to this issue in that authentication can only occur with ‘what you are’, so limiting the possibility of fraudulent activity using stolen information.

The same emerging models that are making biometrics possible are also being utilized to potentially disrupt the security model behind them. These models are powerful tools we can use to generate new data, but also run the risk of creating fake data. One type of technique titled “Deepfake,” is an artificial intelligence-based human image synthesis technique. Normally used to create fake pornographic videos or fake news, Deepfake presents itself as a threat to biometrics as it can potentially also be used to create fake profiles.

Companies need to consider implementing biometrics while still protecting their data. A security strategy should never rely on just one aspect. Ideally, biometrics should be used in conjunction with other methods to ensure improved overall network security.