|
Army Biometrics
9/28/99
JoJo
OSAll Contributor
It was a few days ago when the world learned that the Army was trying
to move away from passwords. Theyґre looking at several options, primarily
various forms of biometrics. Currently theyґre still conducting studies...
The reasoning behind a switch from passwords is relatively obvious --
passwords have never been ideal. Between weak password choice and all the
other problems we all have to deal with theyґre just an imperfect solution.
It would (or at least shold) seem obvious that this is a first step away from
passwords for everyone. Itґs been years since sophisticated biometric
authentication has been available in the private sector but people have been
slow to latch on.
Fingerprint identification seems to be favored in the private sector because
of its relatively lower cost and ease of use. Retinal scanning and voice
recognition are both being looked at carefully by DoD, though.
"Passwords arenґt an acceptable security measure now, and they certainly
wonґt be in the future," explained John Lawshank, a DoD security expert.
"A personґs eyes fingerprints and voice just canґt be stolen," he continued.
Voice isnґt being considered as seriously as fingerprints and retinal
scanning though. "Recording technology may get good enough that you canґt
tell the difference," Lawshank said.
At the same time theyґre looking at ways to pass through biometric controls.
"I can beat a retinal scanner with a tablespoon. I would use it to scoop
out [your] eyes. I could use a knife for the thumbs. See Sneakers
for the mag-card."
Lawshank says that retinal scans are currently the most favored technology
because theyґre most compatible with military equipment. |