Growing security fears around card fraud lead to demand for biometric identification

Growing customer fears over the security of banking services and the increase of phishing attacks, card cloning and PIN number theft are leading to a demand for biometric identification security, according to research commissioned by Fujitsu Services, one of Europe’s leading IT management services companies. As fears increase, customers want banks to use technology to ensure services offered are secure. One in three UK citizens would like banks to introduce biometric security to help combat card fraud.

Advanced technologies are already being used to reduce card fraud in Japan where biometric ATMs are being trialled. One such ATM works using a proprietary Fujitsu algorithm, which creates a pattern of the blood vessels in your palm, this is compiled using an infrared scan and checked against patterns stored in the system or on your card. Palm vein patterns are hard to fake or copy as they lie under the skin, and can also be read without contact, solving the hygiene concerns many people have about fingerprint readers.

The research also found that 29 per cent of people are put off using online banking services due to security worries. This should be a concern for banks looking to develop their multi-channel banking services.

“UK banks need to draw on the experience of other financial institutions around the world if card fraud in the UK is to be reduced. Biometric security can be used to build customer confidence and to reduce PIN theft,” comments Ann Hosford, business development manager for financial services at Fujitsu Services.