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New ID System Scans Finger's Veins, Not Prints

Hitachi system is faster, more secure than fingerprinting, retinal scans

By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 11, 2008 3:52 PM CST

(Newser) – A new technology that scans finger veins to authenticate identity claims to be quicker and more reliable than fingerprinting, retinal scans, or facial recognition, the Times of London reports. Japanese company Hitachi's system shines infrared light through the network of capillaries in the index finger, capturing a unique 3D “vein profile” that's converted into a simple code.

Backers say the technology makes it impossible for would-be criminals to create forgeries or, in a more gruesome scenario, to use severed fingers. Hitachi says its system, already being incorporated into ATMs, door locks, and computer protections in Japan, costs less than retinal scanning or facial recognition. One leading European biometrics firm recently announced it would be incorporating vein profiles into many of its door access systems.

The BioAxxis BD1, fingerprint deadbolt in Satin Nickel.
The BioAxxis BD1, fingerprint deadbolt in Satin Nickel.   (PRNewsFoto/BioAxxis Development Corporation)
PC users can now guard against illegitimate access on their computers by using the vein patterns in their finger as the key to manage their computer login process.
PC users can now guard against illegitimate access on their computers by using the vein patterns in their finger as the key to manage their computer login process.   (Photo: Business Wire)
Barbara Amburgey uses the Iris Acces system to enter New Egypt Elementary School May 1, 2003 in New Egypt, New Jersey.
Barbara Amburgey uses the Iris Acces system to enter New Egypt Elementary School May 1, 2003 in New Egypt, New Jersey.   (Getty Images)
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COMMENTS
Showing 2 of 2 comments
Shannonals
Dec 3, 2008 4:13 AM CST
A smart idea
Guest
Nov 11, 2008 8:34 PM CST
Vein prints (VeinPrints.com) are a natural next-step in the progression through ID technologies that have included finger and sole prints, ocular “prints”, facial and gait recognition… Some are worried about privacy issues, but simple video intrusion (as in London) is a much bigger concern.

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