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Biometrics: Prepare to be Scanned
npistentis writes "From an
article in the Economist: It has been a long time coming. But after years of false starts, security systems based on biometrics--human characteristics such as faces, hand shapes and fingerprints--are finally taking off. Proponents have long argued that because biometrics cannot be forgotten, like a password, or lost or stolen, like a key or an identity card, they are an ideal way to control access to computer networks, airport service-areas and bank vaults. But biometrics have not yet spread beyond such niche markets, for two main reasons. The first is the unease they can inspire among users. Many people would prefer not to have to submit their eyes for scanning in order to withdraw money from a cash dispenser. The second reason is cost: biometric systems are expensive compared with other security measures, such as passwords and personal identification numbers. So while biometrics may provide extra security, the costs currently outweigh the benefits in most cases."
I think they may be able to steal my finger with a big knife!
Here you'll be treated with dignity. Now strip naked and get on the probulator!
You can't take the sky from me...
With passwords, all they had to do is torture me, but with biometrics they just cut off my hand...
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In 50 years time we will have to give all kinds of bio information for everything, so we will carry a handy machine readable card with every bit of data on it to make it more convenient...
Thus defeating the entire purpose, and a stunning testament to human nature.
Beep beep.
"Do you want to look younger, loose weight or change password? Call your local cosmetic surgeon now!"
"So what happens when someone who has lost one or both eyes tries to withdraw money from their bank account?"
Well, that gives the mob/bookies/dealers/etc a real way to get you back. "Pay up or we'll take your eyes/fingers." Not only do you experience major pain/permanent disability, but you lose your identity and they can clean out your bank account.
GL
So stick the fake thumb in your pocket for five minutes to warm it up to body temperature first. Probably that's what you'd do anyway - it would look pretty weird if you walked up to a bank machine with a rubber thumb in your hand or the brim of your hat...
What is the robbing of a bank, compared to the founding of a bank? -- Bertolt Brecht
"Many people would prefer not to have to submit their eyes for scanning in order to withdraw money from a cash dispenser."
Pfffft whatever.
The reason I don't want to press my baby blues up against a retinal scanner is because I'm relatively sure a needle will pop out and pierce my eyes.
I don't think I'm alone in feeling this way.
Knunov
Why do users with IDs under 100,000 or over 700,000 usually have the most worthwhile comments?