The Latest On Home Security and Biometrics Technology
The following is a guest post submitted to M2SYS by Philip Masterson
Studies show that it takes less than 10 minutes for intruders to complete a burglary. The FBI warns in its latest annual crime report that 73.2% of all burglary offenses in the US involved residential properties. Technology is enabling criminals to boost their operations, even making it possible to conduct massive heists off-site. For a household, installing a home alarm system is not the end of the story. It’s imperative to do regular assessments, customizations, and upgrades to ensure the infallibility of home security.
The introduction of biometrics technology was a game-changer in the security system industry. Over the past decade, companies are boosting their product lines that incorporate biometrics into various devices. Here’s a quick rundown of biometric trends you should know.
Two-factor authentication
The strong authentication capability of biometrics is the primary reason why more businesses opt to shift to this security technology. Mary Chaney, a security specialist at GE Capital Americas, said: “If you use dynamic/behavioral biometric measure, like keystroke dynamics, you can gain advantage of two-factor authentication.”
The two-factor authentication combines what you know (password) and who you uniquely are (physiological characteristics). This security tool is being used by governments in authenticating voters and licensed drivers. Banks are also embracing this biometric trend by providing corporate clients with a hardware that produces unique codes every 20 to 30 seconds. Before a company representative is able to perform wire transfers, he/she has to input a password and the unique codes displayed on the hardware.
Public key cryptography
Biometrics technology is coming to homes as demand for heightened home security continue to rise. A recent study suggests that the security devices and systems market in the US will hit nearly $20 billion in 2016, with biometrics likely posting one of the fastest gains.
The home security systems with biometrics that are gaining popularity include biometric locks and physical access systems secured via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. One problem, however, is the risk of a server storing user credentials getting compromised. Public key cryptography is an innovative solution. This decentralized security protocol allows users to choose their own biometric authenticators with their biometric data remaining encrypted and protected against malware.
Cloud biometrics
To improve the security system in your home, it’s not enough to add hardware. You need to boost your security software and integrate new technologies to protect your personal data. Explore cloud biometrics that use cloud services via a web browser or mobile application. This innovation allows real-time and parallel processing. Cloud biometrics can be used on a personal computer or smartphone.
Some of the companies that provide cloud-based security system features include IriTech, ImageWare Systems, and FingerCheck. IrisTech’s IriSecureID allows user enrolment and identification through iris recognition. Most users of cloud biometrics are businesses, though the technology will likely be accessible to households soon.
Out-of-Band biometric login
Today, more families are installing home surveillance cameras that can be monitored wherever they may be. This is used not only to protect against burglars but also to watch over little kids. Security systems that have biometric features ensure that data such as videos do not fall into the hands of the wrong people. You can integrate an out-of-band login in all your electronic devices. Out-of-band login is “a type of two-factor authentication that requires a secondary verification method through a separate communication channel along with the typical ID and password.” Companies such as HYPR provides multi-factor authentication that allows this secure login feature.
Are you ready for biometrics in your home?
Biometric technology is becoming a standard security feature in large businesses. It provides additional layer of security via its strong authentication process. The technology also makes workforce management easier as employee attendance can be verified in seconds. Further, this innovation allows compromised premises to quickly identify intruders. These security features are essential when you’re running a business. However, will these be relevant in homes?
In weighing down the costs and benefits of a biometric technology in your home, you should always keep in mind that criminals are more equipped now than ever. Simple alarm systems don’t stand a chance against sophisticated burglars. You can start by securing physical access to your home via biometrics technology—no need for keys or access cards. Stay abreast with trends in home security and slowly integrate them into your residence.
Biometrics devices for your home
One challenge of integrating biometrics technology in residential spaces is the cost. A corporation can easily afford security devices with this feature, but most households don’t. In the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), a number of biometric-powered devices designed for individual consumers were introduced. Here’s a list for you:
- Intel True Key’s facial recognition tool – This uses cameras on computers or smartphones to scan the user’s face. The scanned facial traits (such as facial symmetry) is used as key to open files, programs, and apps such as home monitoring mobile applications.
- Netatmo’s Welcome – This tube-shaped camera scans the faces of people on your premises and alerts you when it detects a stranger. This device can scan faces at night and can be connected to smartphones.
- Schlage Sense’s smart lock – This Bluetooth-enabled lock secures spaces by a touch pad or smartphone. It unlocks by entering a code or through a voice recognition.
In 2014, more than 1.12 million US homes were attacked by burglars. Though the incidence dropped 13% from a year earlier, this still resulted to an average of $2,229 property loss per case. A home burglary can also impact your homeowners insurance. Although insurers will pay for the most of damage or loss, your contract may undergo certain revisions. Some insurers may increase your premium, charge a deductible or even have your policy cancelled.
As the saying goes, it’s better to be sure than sorry. Boost your home security system today.
Philip Masterson is a Market specialist, Researcher, Security Advocate and a Freelance Writer. He has written a range of topics including home and community security, technology, environment, world market and world businesses.
