FEATURE
level that makes it reliable and userfriendly . The goal is to create an antifraud solution that enhances , rather than hinders , the customer experience , aligning perfectly with efforts to drive effective customer interactions .
Still , persistent challenges must be addressed for the technology to continue its progress , particularly around privacy and security .
Tackling fears and misconceptions
Despite the rapid advancements in biometrics and its increasingly common usage in day-to-day life , there are still common misconceptions about the technology . These ideas have often been fuelled by popular media and entertainment portrayals , with hi-tech gadgets being used to easily fool security systems . Mention face or voice biometrics and many people will automatically think of Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible , slipping through secure facilities with his flawless facemask and voice changer .
More recently , deepfake technology has perpetuated this idea of vulnerability and there is significant concern around AI-generated synthetic voices in particular . However , while the technology is certainly a threat that needs close monitoring , advanced algorithms are already in place to detect and differentiate between genuine and synthetic voices by detecting minute inconsistencies and sound artefacts .
There is also a general lack of knowledge about how biometrics function . There is a tendency to assume that systems will take a copy of the user ’ s information and store it for later use . This conjures the image of a vault containing copies of our faces , voices and fingerprints – just waiting for an enterprising cybercriminal to hijack .
However , it ’ s crucial to separate fiction from fact . Biometric systems today work though converting data into numerical vectors which only work with that specific process . Even if attackers could break through multiple layers of security and encryption , they would not find any biometrics usable for identity theft or fraud . Additionally , biometric systems currently are not interoperable with each other , meaning that the same biometric vectors cannot be used by different systems , or by different models of the same biometric engine . For example , if you register your face to access a bank account , that registered biometric data cannot be used to access another service , as each vector contains contextual data that links them to each specific transaction .
Transparency around these concerns is key to building trust . Organisations must be honest about how biometric data is used and stored , ensuring robust security measures are in place . By educating users and dispelling myths , we can move towards a more informed acceptance of this transformative technology . When it comes to getting the best out of biometrics within the business , education and awareness for senior leadership is also important .
Getting the C-suite on board
Gaining the support of the C-suite is essential for successful biometric implementation . Education is key here , as many business leaders may not fully grasp the multitude of use cases that biometrics offer , often viewing it as just another security measure .
However , the technology ’ s applications extend far beyond stronger security , with huge transformative potential for many core business processes . As such , biometrics should be framed around its potential for improving efficiency , unlocking new opportunities and driving business growth .
This is particularly true for industries such as finance and healthcare , which must walk a fine line between accessibility and security . Physical biometrics are delivering powerful results in reducing crowds and queue times in fields such as travel and entertainment venues .
Alongside emphasising the opportunity , addressing any concerns and misconceptions and tackling them head on is important . The fact that multiple regulatory bodies are moving towards biometrics can help solidify its reputation .
However , not all biometrics are created equal , so it ’ s essential to take the time to research the field and choose solutions that have a high level of assurance . Certifications like NIST and ISO standards serve as benchmarks for reliability and security , guiding organisations in choosing the most robust solutions . Investing in comprehensive solutions that can cover multiple needs such as facial , voice , or document verification , as well as those agile enough to adapt to emerging threats is also beneficial .
Biometric technology offers a transformative approach to both security and wider business processes , balancing robust security with enhanced user experience . However , its success hinges on overcoming misconceptions and evolving threats . A nuanced understanding of biometrics is vital for decision-makers navigating this transformative shift . u
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