Multifactor Authentication
Authentication can be accomplished with one factor, two factors, or multiple factors. Which one is the weakest level of authentication and which is the most secure and why? When would a more secure system be required? Be able to explain these multifactor authentication methods: password protection, token presence, voice biometrics, facial recognition, ocular-based methodology, hand geometry, vein recognition, fingerprint scanner, thermal image recognition, and geographical location. What are some challenges of multiple factor authentication when using biometrics? There is a lot of interesting information covered in this article that you do not need to memorize, but that you should be aware of.
2. State-of-the-Art and Potential MFA Sources
2.1.6. Hand Geometry
Some systems employ the analysis of the physical shape of a hand to authenticate the user. Initially, pegs were utilized to validate the subject, but the usability of such methods was low. Further on, the flatbed scanner was used to obtain the image without the need to fix the user’s hand in one specific position. Today, some systems utilize conventional cameras not requiring close contact with the capture surface. This approach is, however, not very robust to the environment. Some vendors apply so-called photoplethysmography (PPG) to determine whether a wearable device (e.g., a smartwatch) is currently on its user’s wrist or not. The process is similar to the one followed when measuring heart rate.