Who Needs a Password When You Have a Palm?

The day of passwords may be nearing its end – that is, if Intel gets its way.

Let’s face it; today’s computer and internet security is not very effective. Users have to rely on their skills to make an impenetrable password, but often this password is slightly revised and reworked into multiple online and desktop related accounts. To avoid connectivity issues, some users will use the same password on multiple sites. All it takes is one breach of that site for a hacker to get a user’s password. From there, possibilities are endless when it comes to opening up their email, bank accounts and even credit accounts.

Palm Biometrics

Intel, one of the leaders in computer technology, is working on a way to make the traditional password obsolete. Biometrics, according to Intel experts, is the best defense against cybercriminals.

Intel is currently testing their biometrics by using a “palm vein” detector. This contraption requires the user to wave their hand in front of it and it will read the unique features of their palm. Since palms are just as unique as fingerprints, the computer will only unlock when the right palm is waved in front of it.

This technology was showcased at Intel’s Developer Forum to open up a computer operating on Windows 7. When the user is done with the computer, the computer will automatically lock and move into “sleep” mode until the user returns.

So far Intel is working to integrate this new form of security on laptops. Using the unique vein patterns in a person’s palm, the reader will replace the use of passwords and make it far more difficult for cybercriminals to access user’s personal information.

The reader is not just for locking/unlocking a computer – it is for the web too. The goal is to have an identity tag created that will automatically forward to banking, shopping and other websites the user accesses. From there, they will instantly access these sites without using a password.

As of right now, this concept is far from being implemented. Since biometrics tends to outdate rather quickly, the challenge for Intel is finding a way to stay ahead of the technology while still protecting the users who purchase it.

[Image via digitaltrends]