FIDO Alliance has launched the first globally available certification program to test and certify remote biometric identity verification technology.
The introduction of the Face Verification Certification program comes amid increasing demand for robust face biometric identity solutions. With online security becoming more critical, the certification seeks to address the essential processes of enrollment and identity re-binding.
FIDO Alliance, known for setting standards that enhance digital authentication, aims to provide robust verification solutions. The organisation’s focus on reducing reliance on passwords and enhancing security has positioned it at the forefront of FinTech innovation.
The Face Verification Certification program evaluates a biometric system’s performance across various demographics, including skin tone, age, and gender. It also measures resistance to spoof and deepfake attacks, ensuring systems can accurately match a user’s selfie with their government-issued ID during the initial account setup.
This certification is the first to be awarded to iProov’s Biometric Solution Suite, which passed the rigorous testing process. The program, consisting of a minimum of 10,000 tests, assesses usability and security through metrics such as False Reject and Accept Rates (FRR and FAR). Additionally, the certification tests “selfie match” capabilities to guarantee accuracy.
The program’s launch also addresses ongoing concerns about bias in biometric systems and the increasing sophistication of deepfake threats. Research from FIDO Alliance indicates that 50% of American and British consumers would lose trust in an organisation if its biometric system was found to be biased, with 22% willing to stop using the service entirely.
Andrew Shikiar, Executive Director & CEO of FIDO Alliance, said, “Remote identity solutions unlock huge benefits for governments, organizations, and consumers alike, but as appetite grows across the globe, there are understandable concerns mixed with excitement. Identity theft is rising, while bias in biometric systems has caused organizations to delay or reconsider implementations at a time when inclusivity and accessibility have never been more important.”
iProov, the first vendor to complete the certification process, provides leading biometric solutions designed to protect against identity fraud. Andrew Bud, founder and CEO at iProov, commented, “Biometrics are a powerful tool that organizations can utilize to facilitate secure, inclusive, and user-friendly interactions online. Each of these three fundamental components must be given equal consideration as organizations evaluate their options.
“With the FIDO Face Verification Certification program, organizations now have a trusted compass for navigating these decisions. We applaud The FIDO Alliance for addressing the importance of biometric identity verification to strengthen the full user identity lifecycle.”
The certification requirements are built upon proven ISO standards and developed by a diverse group of international stakeholders. Two independent labs, Ingenium Biometrics and TÜV Informationstechnik (TÜV NORD GROUP), are currently accredited to support this certification, with more expected to join later this year.
Expanding upon the Alliance’s existing certification programs, this initiative demonstrates FIDO’s ongoing commitment to enhancing digital security and addressing evolving threats. Combined, these programs offer comprehensive assurance to organisations, consumers, and vendors, facilitating the global shift towards more secure digital verification systems and passwordless security.
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