CONTINUE TO SITE »
or wait 15 seconds

news

Worldpay tests fraud-preventing facial recognition technology

A prototype PIN entry device camera incorporates low-cost, readily available facial recognition technology into a card terminal that 'learns' the cardholder's profile over time.


Payments processor Worldpay is investigating the use of facial recognition technology to help combat card fraud in the U.K., the company recently announced in a press release.

A prototype PIN entry device camera incorporates low-cost, readily available facial recognition technology into a card terminal. This device, called a PED Cam, takes a picture of the card user whenever he or she enters a PIN, the release said.

The resulting image generates a unique biometric template that is linked to the individual's card and stored in a secure, central database managed by Worldpay.

view larger

Terminals linked to the central database capture a fresh image of the card user with every PIN entry, learning the profile of the user over time to improve identification, the release said.

Each new image is automatically cross-referenced against the biometric template already in the system, providing a second layer of authentication the card user.

The design is still in concept phase, but Worldpay said its researchers believe their concept presents distinct advantages over other forms of biometric security currently in pilot programs in the payments space.

"Biometrics has attracted a lot of attention, but achieving sufficient scale has always been difficult in a face-to-face environment," said Worldpay Director of Technology Innovation Nick Telford-Reed. "It's partly because of cost, but also because people don't want the admin hassle of registering their details.

"With this prototype we would remove that hassle. Card users could be automatically enrolled in the system when they use their card. The design also means retailers would not have to find space for another device on their already busy sales counters."

Worldpay researchers are conducting controlled trials to evaluate consumer reaction to the technology, as well as methods for consumer opt-in. The team also is exploring the potential of using the biometric profile as a means of verifying user identity for online purchases.


KEEP UP WITH ATM AND DIGITAL BANKING NEWS AND TRENDS

Sign up now for the ATM Marketplace newsletter and get the top stories delivered straight to your inbox.

Privacy Policy

Already a member? Sign in below.

  or register now

Forgot your password?


You may sign into this site using your login credentials
from any of these Networld Media Group sites:

b'S2-NEW'