While we were using passwords, patterns or PINs on our smartphones or laptop computers until very recently, we have started to use face recognition systems in recent years. The widespread use of facial recognition unlocking has brought along a number of security concerns.
Despite advancing technology, not all facial recognition apps are equally secure. Some may be safer than others, depending on the principle of operation. Let’s examine the commonly used face recognition systems today and decide together which system is safer.
Camera-based facial recognition system
The camera-based face recognition system, which is the first example of face recognition-based unlocking methods, works by identifying the face on the front camera of the device, as the name suggests. In this technique, you must first take photos from different angles to define your face. The system develops a software algorithm using the photos. In cases where the device will be unlocked after the feature is enabled, it works by comparing the live view data from the front camera with the data stored in the system. It is mostly used on android devices.
Because the system is based on software algorithms, it does not always give perfect results. Different lighting conditions in the environment, minor changes in appearance or various accessories may cause the system to fail.
Infrared based face recognition system
In this system, infrared sensors are needed as well as the front cameras on smartphones. The method of this system is similar to the camera face recognition system, but it stands out by taking a two-dimensional picture of the face in the infrared spectrum. This method is more advantageous than the other because in this system, the face does not need to be illuminated, it can work even in dim conditions. Also, since these cameras need thermal energy and heat to create the image, they are more protected from a different person accessing the phone. Usually used in laptop with Microsoft system.
Apple’s Face ID system is also infrared-based. It uses a sensor based on three-dimensional image rendering. Face ID measures thousands of facial details using an illuminator and dot projector. The infrared sensor examines how these dots are located, creating a depth map. 3D systems can also work in the dark and are much more difficult to make mistakes. While 2D infrared systems only seek heat, 3D systems also need depth information. For these reasons, it is much more functional than 2D sensors.
Which system works more safely?
Electronic storage of biometric data can raise many questions about security. However, it’s nothing serious to worry about. Operating systems incorporating biometric unlocking methods take strong measures to securely store sensitive data such as facial features and fingerprints. In smartphones or laptops, biometric data is stored encrypted and isolated in a secure piece of hardware in the device system.
According to our comparison, it is clear that the infrared-based facial recognition system is safer. Infrared-based systems are also universally considered safer. In addition to unlocking, Apple Face ID and Windows Hello systems can be used to autofill password fields and enable payments. When their features are compared, we can say that depth-sensitive systems (such as Face ID) are safe enough for most people, while camera-based systems vary depending on the person. However, if you still prefer the camera face recognition system, it is better not to use this system to authenticate in Google Play Store or banking applications. If you are not confident enough, you should also use alternative encryption methods to unlock.
You can share your thoughts about face recognition systems with us in the comments.
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