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Tech Primer
Biometric payment mechanisms
 Biometric
authentication can be used for payroll processing, controlling access to computer
systems and as a method of identification for various cards. The advantage of
this technology is that biometric objects cannot be stolen or lost; users cannot
pass their biometric characteristics to others users as they do for passwords
and the need to reissue cards and tokens is eliminated. Biometric scanners are
now being used in ordinary places like the airport, the ATM, and the company
time clock.
Voice Pay
Voice Pay refers to the use of voice patterns or voice recognition to identify
an individual. Users have to enrol themselves in a one time process to set up
an account. The process involves calling a Voice Pay number from a cell phone,
establishing a user name and password, as well as providing credit card information.
Also, they have to register a cell phone number and give a voice print by repeating
a series of randomly generated numbers, which may take five minutes approximately.
Users can now use the voice pay system to shop online. Customers can click on
the voice pay icon on the store’s Web site, enter a user name and password,
and once they are logged in the system automatically dials the mobile number
registered previously. An automated attendant initiates a challenge response
procedure, asking the user to repeat two randomly generated four-digit numbers
into the phone. The system then compares the pronunciation to the previously
registered voice with the account and, if the two match, the automated attendant
lists the details of the purchase and asks if the account holder wishes to proceed.
To confirm the user just needs to say ‘Yes’. This system has been
developed by Dublin-based Voice Vault. Voice Vault software analyses 117 different
parameters from a user’s voice to build up a unique profile of that person’s
vocal tract. This profile is independent of what the person is saying or background
noise. Voice pay is presently being used for shops and by banks for phone and
Internet banking.
NETS
The Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS) that operates an infrastructure
in Singapore to enable payment via ATM cards has been testing biometric technology
for cashless payments. A user has to first register an account with NETS and
an authorised bank. Upon registration, the thumbprint of the user is stored
in the database and the individual is given a Personal Identification Number
(PIN). He taps his thumbprint on the NETS point-of-sales machine at the time
of purchase, which verifies the PIN and the transaction is approved if the print
matches. Biometrics technology ensures faster, hassle-free and more secure transactions.
This form of payment eliminates the need to carry different credit or debit
cards.
Indian initiatives
In India, Financial Software and Systems (FSS) in Chennai recently launched
its Biometric ATM Interface Solution (BAIS) that enables connectivity of ATMs
with biometric support to Electronic Financial Transaction (EFT) switches. Another
company based in Pune named Axis Technology is another Indian company which
is developing biometric solutions for ATMs and kiosks in the banking sector.
Dena Bank has launched the Biometric ATMs in Gujarat and Andhra Bank has launched
two mobile biometric-access ATMs, in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Union Bank
of India has teamed up with Indian software firm Financial Information Network
and Operations (FINO) and Cashpor Microcredit to launch biometric smartcard
trials in Uttar Pradesh.
For more information visit: www.bromba.com/faq/biofaqe.htm#Verfahren
—Garima Grover
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