What is biometric security
Originally people thought that this methodology was extremely sci-fi and very complicated. This kind of security is based on people's biometrics. In other words, it requires fingerprints, eye scans, or something else that makes each person unique thereby granting individualized, person to person, verification and access. It could even be facial recognition where you must put your face in front of the scanner. In situations where it's a high-security building, the biometric technology may require more data about the person (the tone of their voice and even the manner in which you speak). However, believe it or not, this is only the tip of the iceberg. This kind of security has many features and details that owners may consider when picking the system that meets their needs. However, you don't need to run through tons of content to find them all. Sure Lock & Key has gathered all of the definitions, options and requirements necessary for you. So sit comfortably and keep reading this blog post to concisely and precisely discover more about biometric home security systems.
What is biometric system security
The biometric security system uses information from different physical parts of a person to identify them. This person can have access if it's the one in the database. Otherwise, they will be stopped from entering inside. There are three types of biometrics:
- Biological (using body fluids)
- Morphological (eyes, fingerprints, etc.)
- Behavioral (how a person walks, sits, speaks, etc.)
You can choose how to secure a home with one of these three types. Once you've obtained and mapped the data, you can match it with the list of people who will give access to the building. So, if a wrong person tries to enter, they’ll be denied, and the door will remain locked.
Notice that each type of biometric identification has its advantages and disadvantages. Knowledge of the basic working principles will help you choose the best system and keep your property safe.
What are the types of biometric devices
Biometric technology progresses extremely fast as manufacturers continue to experiment and reveal new gadgets. However, the identification methods remain unique in biometric devices, and each device differs according to the recognition type. Fingerprint scanning, voice recognition, iris recognition, and facial recognition require special sensors. Let's quickly run through them.
Fingerprint scanning is probably the most popular identification method. Why? Because it is easy to implement. The person needs to glide his or her finger through the fingerprint sensor. However, if you use such a method on your smartphone, you don't need any other devices. The system identifies their DNA and matches it with the one already in the system. With such security measures, you don't need to deal with passwords, complex codes, etc.
Voice recognition is not as complicated as you may think. It is one of the possible ways we unlock our smartphones. Sometimes you don't need an application or a complex mechanism. You can use an application for your smartphone or a voice sensor. Today, you can use it to unlock the door, turn off the alarm or the security system, access the database, etc. Moreover, it's pretty complicated to falsify a person's voice. It's a unique frequency, so the criminal must somehow record it, not an easy thing to accomplish.
Iris recognition technology was first mentioned in 1936 by ophthalmologist Frank Bursch. The algorithm was patterned later, in the 1990s, when it became natural to identify the difference between people's iris. Iris recognition is recognized as one of the most accurate identification methods. The principle is similar to fingerprint scanning, but it is even more reliable.
Facial recognition is not that popular, as of today, for home security but is as effective regarding other methods. You have to show your face to the scanner, which will match the person's information from the database. You can download an image and minimize the interaction with the device so that it won't take long. Moreover, if you care about making your property safer, you can combine facial recognition with the other identification methods. In some cases, face scanners are combined with fingerprint scanners or other biometric authentication devices.
What is a disadvantage of biometrics
A list of disadvantages is required for every type of technology. Some of them may be minor, but others could be critical in some cases. So, if you don't want to miss anything and have no troubles with the security, please follow these lines.
The main disadvantage of a fingerprint biometric is that any trauma can interrupt the scanning process. Also, it could be crucial if a criminal somehow replicates your fingerprints. Sometimes, when we least expect it, thieves can copy our fingerprints with their devices.
The disadvantages of voice recognition are related to the quality of the sound. It would be best if one pronounces the phrase loud and clear so that the device will recognize the frequency. If there is too much noise in the building, you may have problems trying to say the phrase correctly.
It would be best if you created almost perfect conditions for iris recognition to make it work properly. First, the person should come close to the sensor to perform an eye scan. Second of all, there should be a good light condition because the system won't identify the iris if there won't be enough light.
The lighting condition is essential for the face scanner as well. The user also has to control face expressions as it may be difficult for the system to finish the identification. The same thing is with facial accessories. Such things could complicate the process, so try to take them off if possible.
As you can see, several factors can affect biometric identification as each type of device also has disadvantages. However, it's not a disaster, and you can set up a condition for a proper device's work by using the condition of your home.
Can biometrics be hacked
Yes, it can. Despite being a hi-tech security method with many strong points, it's not perfect. It doesn't matter what type of biometric technology you use - you need to use a part of your body to grant access. Your personal information is in the database to match with the fingerprint, iris, or other biometrics. Thieves could hack the system and steal your data or add someone else's information. The average person won't even see it without doing research. Stolen data could be used to reproduce physical fingerprints or gain unauthorized access to the system. If you feel your current security measures are insufficient, you can get additional security for your home via smart devices.
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Summing Up
Biometrical technology is a step forward in overall security. People can build multi-step protection. It's not only a mechanical key or a keycard. It's something a lot more. However, to implement the biometric authentication, it is advisable to mix it with other security devices and then perform the setup. If you find that you may need help you're not alone. The vast majority of people may not have the required skills and knowledge, and though you can try to figure it out yourself the better option would probably be to call a locksmith. Sure Lock & Key is an excellent option here. We are ready to assist you 24 hours a day throughout the year. Customer satisfaction is our major rule, so we are always prepared to help those who need it. Want to secure your house? Give us a call!