What is Biometric Authentication?
Biometric authentication is the process of verifying a user’s identity based on physical traits like fingerprints, face, iris or behavioral traits like voice. It is commonly implemented in mobile apps to enhance user experience and security when accessing personal or sensitive data, including financing, health information, or social networks. However, the higher the level of convenience, the more significant the responsibility to apply the appropriate level of security when implementing this feature.
Benefits of biometric authentication to our mobile application
Enhance user experience: In contrast to the traditional method of username/ password authentication, biometric authentication offers a quicker solution for users. Instead of dealing with a very common issue of remembering usernames and passwords, users can simply use fingerprint scanners or facial recognition which are set up on their mobile devices for unlocking.
According to a survey by Visa in 2019, 91% of participants believed adopting biometrics would improve security. Additionally, 64% identified biometrics as a more convenient option, particularly in situations where they usually forget their password (32%).
Stronger Data Security: Authenticate using biometric is also considered to surpass username/ password authentication in terms of security in many ways.
- Users are less likely to forget their passwords since their biometric data serves as the password.
- The uniqueness of users’ biometric data makes it more challenging for hackers to replicate.
While there are areas for improvement, such as accuracy, costs, and software vulnerabilities, the popularity of biometric authentication has surpassed traditional methods.
Limitations of Biometric Authentication
Despite its benefits, there are drawbacks to consider when implementing biometric to authentication. Biometric accuracy may vary based on sensor quality, lighting, angles, or environmental factors, leading to recognition errors.
Furthermore, biometric features, unlike passwords, cannot be easily changed or reset. This can be an issue if user wants to recover their account or data. It could also be a danger when hacker can get user’s identity based on the biometric information if not encrypted carefully.
Last but not least, biometric authentication is behaved differently on different operational system and device which would bring up issues and requires additional effort to handle when implement on any hybrid application or native app which support multiple devices.
How to implement biometric authentication rationally
Firstly, using biometric authentication for apps demanding a high level of security and privacy, such as those related to banking, health, or payments. For less sensitive apps like games, entertainment, or news, opt for alternative authentication methods like passwords, PINs, or patterns to minimize the risk of exposing biometric data to unnecessary or malicious entities.
Secondly, implement biometric authentication in parallel with other authentication factors, such password. This approach will add an extra layer of security and verification for app access. This would also help the user to have other options to access our app if one is not working.
Thirdly, remember to apply secure implementation when using biometric authentication to your app. It is essential to include these activities: encrypt, authenticate, and safeguard your authentication method to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. Make sure to follow the best practices for minimizing, anonymizing, and deleting data, and ensure you obtain consent and inform your clients about their rights.
In conclusion, while biometric authentication offers substantial benefits for mobile app security and user experience, we must be mindful of its limitations and apply it rightly and securely.