Microsoft is upping the ante in computer security by introducing new biometric security measures for Windows Hello, which is integrated with Windows 10. Using new infrared technology that can read spatial dimensions, compatible devices will enable users to sign into features by simply looking at the camera. The infrared sensors will be able to use data such as irises, facial dimensions, and fingerprints in order to authenticate users.
In an age where stakes are high and password theft even higher, technology needs a new direction in terms of security. In a blog post written on March 17, Joe Belfiore states that “You– uniquely you– plus your device are the keys to your Windows experience, apps, data and even websites and services – not a random assortment of letters and numbers that are easily forgotten, hacked, or written down and pinned to a bulletin board. Modern sensors recognize your unique personal characteristics to sign-you-in on a supporting Windows 10 device.”
Hacking was a huge headline feature in 2014, capped by the hack of Sony Pictures and the subsequent cancellation of the theatrical release of The Interview. More than ever, people are using computers to do all sorts of personal business online, and hackers are making out like bandits, taking advantage of dated security measures and holes. Passwords are often a weak link; they can be stolen in a number of different ways. And since people do tend to use the same password for multiple logins, it gets even more dangerous. Password storage programs like LastPass help mitigate the risk, however there are still problems with the now-almost-antiquated password login system.
While still proprietary and probably not even available for another year, it’s a step in the right direction. New tech has to start somewhere, and it’s nice to see Microsoft taking the lead. Microsoft hopes that third parties will integrate this technology in their login systems to allow a user one simple password: their body.
Belfiore continues in the blog post: “Instead of using a shared or shareable secret like a password, Windows 10 helps to securely authenticate to applications, websites and networks on your behalf—without sending up a password. Thus, there is no shared password stored on their servers for a hacker to potentially compromise.”
Is biometric security the pinnacle of security? Probably not. There are still potential problems, however the major risks of current password systems seem to be mitigated with the new technology.
What do you think about this new technology? Do you foresee any problems with this new system?
