System and method for secure biometric identification

Abstract

A system and method for secure biometric identification. The inventive system includes a mobile unit and a server. The mobile unit is adapted to receive biometric input and provide a first signal in response thereto. In the illustrative implementation, the mobile unit is a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) and the biometric input is provided by a fingerprint sensor mounted thereon. A first transceiver is mounted on the PDA for transmitting the first signal and receiving a second signal in response thereto. The PDA is adapted to encrypt the first signal and decrypt the second signal. A secure device is mounted at the PDA. The secure device has two modes of operation: a first locked mode by which access thereto is prohibited and a second unlocked mode by which access thereto is enabled on receipt of the second signal. In the illustrative implementation, the secure device is an encrypted database for which the second signal is a decryption key. The server unit includes a second transceiver for receiving the first signal transmitted via the wireless link. The first and second transceivers are adapted to operate in accordance with the Bluetooth specification. The server is equipped with a system for authenticating the biometric data and providing the second signal in response thereto. The second signal is then communicated to the mobile unit where it is utilized to access the secure device, e.g., encrypted database.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to electronic devices and systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for providing user identification and / or authentication for electronic devices and systems. [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art [0004] Currently, whenever a user wishes to access a computer-based system containing private data, the user must often identify himself, usually with a password. Passwords notoriously provide poor security as users either chose very simple, easily ascertained passwords or, if they use more difficult passwords, users often write them down, making them subject to theft. [0005] In the end, most forms of encryption, as well as access controls such as passwords and even locks, serve a single purpose of identifying the person requesting access. [0006] Hence, there is a need in the art for a reliable, secure system or method of authenticating the identity o...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Passwords notoriously provide poor security as users either chose very simple, easily ascertained passwords or, if they use more difficult passwords, users often write them down, making them subject to theft.

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