Biometric Devices

he movies: Total Recall, the Fifth Element, Fatal Error all had a common element. It was first popularized in Blade Runner has become a common fixture in many current sci-fi and suspense movies. Can you guess what it is? Biometrics encrypt; computer identification by a unique physical aspect of your own body. Programs are now available to recognize your voice, finger prints, retina or signature. The purpose of the preceding technologies is to provide "foolproof" security for on line information exchanges and safe transaction methodology for e-commerce. The problem has been the use of passwords, everyone, being human uses common obvious words that they can easily remember, however these "popular" words can just as easily be guessed or left out in pubic view through journal entries or even yellow stickies on the monitor. The more cryptic and cumbersome a password is the more likely it is to block access to legitimate users. A program VoiceCrypt is available for $49.95 US, (headset microphone included). VoiceCrypt uses your voice to encrypt and decrypt files. After installation you will be required to speak your name, favorite color, and city of birth so it can learn to recognize your voice.During encryption VoiceCrypt encrypt a file, and overwrite the original file to prevent undelete programs from viewing it. You can also hide the file from Windows Explorer so it cannot be seen on your machine. IBM has developed a technology that uses fingerprints ( http://altcomp.com/products/bac/securetouchannounce.htm)

In this system one can be assigned a single password or a specific password for each different program. These passwords are then associated with the person's fingerprint allowing the individual to transparently log into programs by the use of one fingerprint Signature recognition is another option, PenOp ( http://www.penop.com) is a company that has developed the software. The software program can read your written signature, compare it to a "model" and determine if the signature is valid. Micos use face geometry as an encrypt method . Although their technology is expensive it does make for interesting reading. There are, as yet no retina or irises recognition programs on the market, I would expect to them within two years. Visit the Biometric Group ( http://www.biometricgroup.com/) page for further reading on this new technology.