Club Management - September/October 2007 - (Page 39) comparison), interactive merics focus on the cadence and pattern (dynamic comparison) of the user’s writing style to verify identity. Using biometric authentication measures to create a dynamic signature, the system is able to capture data based on the movement of a writing instrument (pen or stylus) over a fl at surface (digitizer tablet) in the form of acoustic emissions. Acoustic emissions are generated from the sequence in the signing process and constitute a pattern unique to an individual’s writing style. This pattern contains extensive information about the way in which the signature was executed. In order to create an identity standard, signature-analysis software prompts the user to enroll by signing his/her name three times in succession. Matches lead to formation of a wave graph that can be encrypted and compressed into a template. While it is possible for a skilled forger to produce a good visual copy or facsimile of a signature, it is nearly impossible to accurately reproduce the dynamics of a genuine signer. In addition, a signaturemetric system protects the privacy of its user since no personal information can be recreated from a stored template – only an acoustic emissions map. In essence, a signature-metric application transforms a series of movements into a unique collection of biometric data (e.g. rhythm, acceleration, pressure and flow) and may be appropriate for club application. A leading provider of dynamic signature analysis is Cyber-Sign, which authenticates a member by focusing on the shape, speed, stroke order, off-tablet motion, pen pressure and timing information captured during signing. Also, comparative analysis of a user signature to a recorded template occurs in fractions of a second and should not interfere with the level of quality service. Hybrid Card Hybrid cards, which combine the benefit of biometrics with a contactless RFID card, have started attracting attention in the marketplace. While an RFID card can function as a credit card, debit card, smart card or prepaid card, there has been no easy way to verify the cardholder is the authorized user. A hybrid RFID card – or, RFID biocard – attaches an onboard fi ngerprint scanner to the RFID card to establish internal identification authorization. When the user’s fi ngerprint matches the print stored on the biocard, the RFID chip is activated (energized) for signal transmission for a predetermined timeframe (e.g. 30 seconds). A biocard may be a convenient way for clubs to control authorized entry or member transaction settlement. Biometric RFID Card An innovative hybrid card features an embedded fi ngerprint scanner, microchip and magnetic stripe built into the body of a plastic card. In order to initiate a transaction, the cardholder swipes two fi ngers across the card’s embedded scanner. Two fi ngers are required, since using only one fi nger could make the card unusable if the principle fi nger was injured (e.g. cut, burned). The card is capable of storing images of six scans – three for each fi nger – in an embedded microchip. Once the image is acquired, it is locked into the fi ngerprint scanner and cannot be changed. The fact that images are stored on the card provides tight security and more rapid access than otherwise provided through verification and authorization interaction with a remote database. Matching transaction scans activate the on-board microchip to complete a transaction. A successful biometric match authorizes the card for a predetermined time. If a transaction is not completed in the allotted time, a fresh match must be performed. Unless activated, the card is just a piece of plastic. The appeal of a biocard is that it operates autonomously as the recognition of the fi ngerprint is performed on the card itself. Hence, no link to an external database is needed and the scanned fi ngerprint never leaves the card. In addition, the process operates without need for a signature or PIN code, and the card never leaves the cardholder’s hand or sight during a transaction. The RFID biocard is expected to have a life of two years. A pioneering manufacturer of this card is a Danish company, Scanecotech AS. The implementation of a fi ngerprint-secured RFID contactless card was expected by mid-2006. The card was designed with an onboard fi ngerprint scanner, embedded biochip and an RFID-enabled chip for controlling cashless transactions. Developers of this biometric payment card (biocard) claim it compliant with ISO 14443 technical protocol and can be used wherever contactless payment technology is available. Unlike other biometric technologies, the biocard features a self-enrollment process that provides the cardholder an opportunity to scan and store fi ngerprint images as digital certificates in an onboard memory chip (biochip). It is important to note that the biocard is self-contained and operates independent of an external database or system server. The cardholder scans either one or more fi ngers to capture prints for direct image storage or conversion to a digital certificate. When a digital certificate is used, the fi ngerprint is stored as an encrypted version of the mathematical coordinates of the fi ngerprint template. When the user’s live fi ngerprint matches the stored print image or digital certificate, the card’s radio frequency identification chip is activated to enable transaction processing. Given the uniqueness of fi ngerprints, on-card authentication provides the highest level of security and cardholder privacy. Since the cardholder’s biometric data is maintained directly on the biocard, there is no need for new hardware or software at the point of sale. The biocard simply extends the front end of the payment processing system. NFC Technology Near field communication (NFC) technology devices provide short-range wireless connectivity – from a 2-4 inch range – without the use of radio frequency (RF) transmission. Since NFC devices require their own power supply, cellular phones and PDAs are likely candidates to house them. Club uses include member identification management, access control and payment systems. Soon members will be able to open fi les and door locks and replace remote control devices with an NFC-enabled cell phone. Technology experts anticipate proximity payments soon will be added to cell phones as they become equipped with NFC technology. Instead of carrying POS continued on page 48 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2007 • 39
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