System suitable for detecting identity cards, devices associated therewith, and authentication method

Abstract

A system suitable for detecting identity cards, an associated device, and an authentication method are provided. The authentication method may include providing a set of detection points. The set of detection points may include a plurality of detection points. The detection points may be visually perceived, for example, on the device (e.g., by a customer / client). The authentication method may further include using the device to capture a plurality of images of an identity card (belonging to the customer / client). The plurality of images are captured to be consistent (in position / location) with the plurality of detection points. If the captured images are consistent (in position / location) with the detection points, the authentication / verification may be considered successful.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This document relates generally, but not exclusively, to a system suitable for detecting identity cards. This document also relates to an apparatus and / or an authentication method associated with the system. Background Art

[0002] In the context of "electronic know your customer (eKYC)", authentication can be performed, for example, by verifying an identity card belonging to the customer.

[0003] Traditionally, this can be done, for example, by prompting the customer to scan / take an image of the identity card belonging to or associated with the customer for authentication.

[0004] A conventional solution / technique is to use an electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) to take an image of the identity card belonging to or associated with the customer. After verifying that the captured image indeed corresponds to the customer's identity card, authentication can be completed.

[0005] This document contemplates that conventional solutions / techniques may be circumvented by one or more unauthorized parties / individuals (e.g., authentication by someone who is not the true owner of the identity card). For example, an unauthorized individual can display a screenshot of the captured image of the identity card on a high-resolution monitor (e.g., obtained fraudulently), and such a high-resolution screenshot may be used for verification and subsequent successful completion of authentication. Therefore, the reliability / integrity of authentication may be a concern / issue.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional solutions / techniques may rely on Moiré pattern-based analysis of the captured image and / or boundary-based inspection of the captured image to verify the reliability of the screenshot and / or the captured image of the identity card. This document contemplates that such verification techniques may require a large amount of data and large-scale training samples to train a classifier model and may thus be inefficient.

[0007] This document contemplates the need to improve the manner in which authentication can be performed in a reliable and / or efficient manner. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To improve the manner in which authentication / verification can be performed (i.e., in a reliable and / or secure manner), this document contemplates route-based detection. Route-based detection can be based on a set of detection points generated in a predefined manner and / or in a random manner.

[0009] Typically, route-based detection can be associated with a set of detection points, which can be displayed on the display of a device (e.g., a portable electronic device such as a smart phone or a non-portable electronic device such as a self-service station). Each detection point in the set of detection points can be associated with a location / place (i.e., as displayed on the display). As will be discussed in more detail later, the detection points can be displayed in a sequential manner or synchronously.

[0010] When authentication is initiated, the user can be prompted to take an image of their identification card such that the captured image is consistent with the location / place of the detection points displayed on the display. For example, the set of detection points can be displayed on the display of a smart phone (having an image capture device such as a camera) used by the user. The user holding the smart phone can position the smart phone such that an image of the identification card is captured to be consistent with the displayed detection points (i.e., as displayed on the display). For each detection point in the set of detection points, the capturing process (i.e., the process of taking an image of the identification card) can be repeated in the same manner. After the image of the identification card is captured in a manner consistent with each of the displayed detection points in the set of detection points, the authentication can be successfully completed.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a device is provided.

[0012] The device can include: at least one display and at least one imaging device. The device can further include at least one processor coupled to at least one of the at least one display and the at least one imaging device.

[0013] The device can further include at least one storage device coupled to the processor. The storage device can carry a set of instructions that, when executed:

[0014] Cause the at least one display to display a set of detection points, each detection point in the set of detection points being associated with a location on the display;

[0015] Cause the at least one imaging device to capture data associated with an identification card associated with a customer, the captured data being associated with at least one image of the identification card; and

[0016] Cause the at least one processor to process the captured data to determine the position of each corner and / or the center of the identification card.

[0017] The image of the identification card can be captured to be consistent with the corresponding detection points.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a device is provided.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the device may include a photographing device (e.g., a camera), a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), and a display (e.g., a screen). In one embodiment, the photographing device and the display may be coupled to the processor.

[0020] The photographing device may photograph data associated with an identity card. The identity card may be associated with a customer. In addition, the photographed data may be associated with at least one image of the identity card (i.e., at least one photographed image of the identity card).

[0021] The processor may process the photographed data in a certain way to determine the position of each corner of the identity card and / or the center of the identity card (i.e., the position of each corner of the identity card and / or the center of the identity card).

[0022] The display may display a set of detection points. Each detection point in the set of detection points may be associated with a position / location on the display.

[0023] In addition, the device may be controlled (e.g., by the customer) such that the photographing device may photograph an image of the identity card to be consistent with a corresponding detection point (e.g., in terms of position / location). For example, authentication may be determined to be successful after it is determined that all photographed images of the identity card (i.e., photographed images of the identity card) are consistent with the corresponding detection points.

[0024] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an authentication method is provided.

[0025] The authentication method may include providing a set of detection points. The set of detection points may include a plurality of detection points. The detection points may be visually perceived on the device, for example.

[0026] The authentication method may further include using the device to photograph a plurality of images of an identity card (belonging to a customer). The plurality of images may be photographed to be consistent with the plurality of detection points.

[0027] If the photographed images are consistent with the detection points, the authentication / verification may be considered successful. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the following drawings, where:

[0029] Figure 1 Shows an example of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure that may include at least one device and at least one host device that may display a set of detection points;

[0030] Figure 2More particularly, an example of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 1 ;

[0031] Figure 3 An exemplary implementation associated with a set of detection points in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 1 ;

[0032] Figure 4 An example of a computer device that may correspond to or be associated with a device and / or a host device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 1 ; Figure 1 ;

[0033] Figure 5a An example of an authentication method associated with a system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figure 5b An exemplary authentication / verification processing embodiment associated with an authentication method in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and Figure 5a ;

[0035] Figure 6 A diagram illustrating an example of a module of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which apparatus may correspond to, for example, an apparatus of; Figure 2 ; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] A route-based detection strategy is contemplated herein for reliable and / or efficient authentication / verification, as will be discussed in further detail with reference to; Figures 1 to 6 ;

[0037] Embodiments will be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings. Like reference numerals and characters in the drawings denote like elements or equivalents.

[0038] Certain portions of the description below are presented in terms of algorithms and functional or symbolic representations of operations on data within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and functional or symbolic representations are the means used by those skilled in the data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. Here, an algorithm is generally considered to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. These steps are those requiring physical manipulation of physical quantities such as electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated.

[0039] Unless otherwise specifically stated and as will be apparent from the context hereinafter, it will be understood that throughout this document, terms such as "receive", "scan", "calculate", "determine", "replace", "generate", "initialize", "output", etc. refer to the actions and processes of a computer system or similar electronic device that manipulates and transforms data represented by physical quantities within the computer system into other data similarly represented by physical quantities within the computer system or other information storage, transmission, or display device.

[0040] This document also discloses one or more apparatuses for performing the operations of one or more methods. Such apparatuses may be specifically constructed for the desired purpose or may include a computer or other devices selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. The algorithms and displays presented herein have no inherent association with any particular computer or other device. According to the teachings herein, various machines may be used with the program. Optionally, the construction of more specialized apparatuses for performing the required method steps may be appropriate. The structure of a computer suitable for performing the various methods / processes described herein will become apparent from the following description.

[0041] In addition, a computer program is implicitly disclosed herein, because it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the various steps of the methods described herein can be implemented by computer code. The computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular programming language and its implementation. It should be understood that various programming languages and their codes can be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure contained herein. Moreover, the computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular control flow. Without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure, there are many other variants of the computer program that can use different control flows.

[0042] Furthermore, one or more steps of the computer program can be executed in parallel rather than sequentially. Such a computer program can be stored on any computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium can include storage devices such as magnetic disks or optical discs, storage chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a computer. The computer-readable medium can also include hardwired media such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless media such as exemplified in the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) mobile phone system, and other wireless systems such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi. When the computer program is loaded and executed on such a computer, the computer program effectively produces an apparatus for implementing the steps of the preferred method.

[0043] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 6 discuss the foregoing in more detail.

[0044] Reference Figure 1, shows a system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 may be associated with a route-based detection strategy for applications / purposes such as authentication / verification.

[0045] For example, in an authentication / verification scenario, the system 100 may be adapted to detect at least one identity card that may belong to or be associated with at least one customer / client (i.e., also referred to as at least one user). The identity card may carry or be associated with information / data related to the customer / client and may be used for authentication / verification purposes.

[0046] The system 100 may include one or more devices 102, one or more databases 104, and a communication network 106.

[0047] The device 102 may be coupled to the database 104. Specifically, the device 102 may be coupled to the database 104 via the communication network 106, for example.

[0048] In one embodiment, the device 102 may be coupled to the communication network 106, and the database 104 may be coupled to the communication network 106. The coupling may be performed by wired coupling and / or wireless coupling means. Generally, the device 102 may be configured to communicate with the database 104 via the communication network 106.

[0049] The device 102 may correspond to one or more computers (e.g., laptop computers, desktop computers, and / or electronic mobile devices with computing capabilities such as smart phones and electronic tablets), for example.

[0050] Generally, the device 102 may be configured to capture information / data related to the customer / client. Based on the captured information / data (i.e., the information data related to the customer / client), the device 102 may be configured to generate and transmit one or more input signals. For example, the device 102 may be configured to capture at least one image associated with the identity card that carries information / data related to the customer / client. The output signal may be associated with at least one captured image, for example. In this regard, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the device may include one or more capturing components (e.g., an image capturing device such as a camera). Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 102 may include one or more display components (e.g., a display such as a screen), for example.

[0051] Furthermore, generally, the device 102 may be configured to receive one or more input signals from the host device 104. The input signals may be associated with a set of detection points. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0052] The host device 104 can correspond to, for example, one or more computers (e.g., laptop computers, desktop computers, and / or electronic mobile devices with computing capabilities such as smart phones and electronic tablets).

[0053] Generally, the host device 104 can be configured to generate one or more input signals that can be transmitted to the device 102. As previously described, the input signals can be associated with a set of detection points. For example, the input signals can be processed to generate a graphical user interface (GUI) that can be displayed on the display of the device 102. The set of detection points can include a plurality of detection points.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the input signals can be transmitted from the host device 104 to the device 102 such that the GUI can be processed in a visually perceivable manner on the display of the device 102. The GUI can correspond, for example, to a graphical display of the set of detection points on the display of the device 102, and each detection point can be associated with a position / location on the display of the device 102.

[0055] Generally, the set of detection points can be displayed in a graphical manner that can be visually perceived by a customer / client (e.g., via the display of the device 102).

[0056] Based on the received input signals, a customer / client carrying the device 102 can be prompted (e.g., in an auditory manner and / or in a visually perceivable manner) to capture one or more images of the customer / client's identification card based on the corresponding one or more detection points. Specifically, for each displayed detection point, an image of the customer / client's identification card can be captured in response to the customer / client. In this case, the detection points in the set of detection points can be associated with the corresponding captured images (i.e., the captured images of the identification card that have been captured in response to the displayed detection points).

[0057] As previously described, each detection point in the set of detection points can be associated with a position / location displayed on the display of the device 102.

[0058] For example, the aforementioned prompt can be made by way of a graphical display of one or more detection points on the display of the device 102 such that the customer / client can attempt to capture at least one corresponding image of their identification card as a response. The image can be substantially consistent with the displayed detection point in terms of position / location. Specifically, a customer / client carrying the device 102 can be prompted to use the device 102 to capture one or more images of their identification card such that the captured images are consistent with the set of detection points as displayed on the display of the device 102 in terms of position / location. Thus, it can be understood that the captured images (of the identification card) can be associated with the corresponding detection points.

[0059] Based on the captured image, the aforementioned output signal can be generated by device 102. Additionally, for example, the output signal can be transmitted from device 102 to the host device 104 for processing.

[0060] Specifically, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the host device 104 can be configured to receive and process the output signal in a manner such that it determines whether the captured image is substantially consistent in position / location with a corresponding set of detection points (e.g., the set of detection points displayed on the display of device 102). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing can be performed, for example, by way of comparison-based processing of the input signal and the output signal.

[0061] In a case where it can be determined (e.g., by way of comparison-based processing) that the captured image can be considered to be substantially consistent in position / location with the detection points, the host device 104 can be configured to determine that authentication / verification can be successfully completed. Otherwise, in a case where it is determined (e.g., by way of comparison-based processing) that at least one captured image is inconsistent in position / location with the corresponding detection points, the host device can be configured to determine that authentication / verification has failed (i.e., authentication / verification cannot be successfully completed). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, this will be discussed in further detail with reference to Figure 2 be discussed further.

[0062] The communication network 106 can, for example, correspond to an Internet communication network and / or a dedicated device-to-device type (e.g., near-field communication type, Bluetooth type, direct-wiring type, and / or infrared type) communication network. Communication via the communication network 106 (i.e., communication between device 102 and host device 104) can be performed by way of wired communication and / or wireless communication.

[0063] As previously mentioned, a route-based detection strategy is considered herein. Route-based detection can be based on the aforementioned set of detection points. Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the set of detection points can be generated based on a predetermined manner and / or a random manner. Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the detection points can be displayed in a sequential manner or synchronously.

[0064] In one embodiment, with regard to the aforementioned predetermined manner, the host device 104 can be configured to generate an input signal such that the detection points in the set of detection points can be visually perceived (e.g., by a customer / client) as being positioned on the display (of device 102) based on one or more predetermined patterns (determined by the host device 104). Examples of predetermined patterns can include, for example, a straight-line pattern, a zigzag-based pattern, and one or more patterns based on one or more geometric shapes. Generally, for such route-based detection, the position / location associated with the detection points can be considered to be unique (i.e., in the set of detection points, no two detection points share the same position / location).

[0065] In one embodiment, with respect to the aforementioned random-based approach, the host device 104 may be configured to generate an input signal such that the detection points in the set of detection points can be visually perceived (e.g., visually perceived by a customer / client) as random (i.e., without a perceivable fixed pattern - e.g., script). Generally, for such random route-based detection, there is a possibility that a detection point may be associated with the same location / site as another detection point associated therewith (i.e., in the set of detection points, there is a possibility that two or more detection points may share the same location / site). According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, this is possible if the detection points are displayed in a sequential manner, as will be discussed later.

[0066] In one embodiment, with respect to synchronously displaying the set of detection points, a customer / client may visually perceive all the detection points in the set of detection points simultaneously.

[0067] In one embodiment, with respect to displaying the set of detection points in a sequential manner, only a part of the set of detection points is displayed at any given time. In one example, only one detection point is displayed at a time, and a subsequent detection point (i.e., the currently displayed detection point) is only displayed after it is determined that the corresponding captured image is (substantially) consistent with the displayed detection point (i.e., in terms of location / site). In another example, at least two detection points may be initially displayed, and one or more subsequent detection points are only displayed after it is determined that the corresponding captured image is (substantially) consistent with the at least two detection points initially displayed (i.e., in terms of location / site).

[0068] Now, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, hereinafter reference may be made to Figure 2 discuss the device 102 in more detail.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 102 is shown in more detail in the context of the exemplary embodiment 200.

[0070] In the exemplary embodiment 200, the device 102 may include one or more imaging devices 202 and one or more processors 204. The imaging device 202 may be coupled to the processor 204. The coupling may be performed by means of a wired coupling and / or a wireless coupling. The device 102 may further include, for example, one or more displays 206. The device 102 may also further include, for example, one or more transceivers 208. In addition, the device 102 may also further include, for example, one or more storage devices (not shown).

[0071] Each of the imaging device 202, the display 206, the transceiver 208, the storage device, or any combination thereof may be coupled to the processor 204. The coupling may be performed by means of a wired coupling and / or a wireless coupling.

[0072] The imaging device 202 may be configured to capture information / data associated with a customer / client. In one example, the imaging device 202 may correspond to an image capture device (e.g., a camera), which may be configured to capture at least one image associated with an identification card associated with the customer / client.

[0073] Based on the captured information / data (i.e., information / data associated with the customer / client), the imaging device 202 may be configured to generate and transmit one or more captured signals that may be associated with one or more captured images of the identification card. The captured signals may be transmitted from the imaging device 202 to the processor 204. The processor 204 may be configured to receive and process the captured signals to generate one or more output signals. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, the output signals may be transmitted from the device 102 to the host device 104 via the transceiver 208. Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the device 102 may receive input signals from the host device 104 via the transceiver 208.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 204 may be configured to perform one or more processing tasks on the captured signals and / or the input signals to generate the output signals.

[0075] In one embodiment, the processor 204 may be configured to perform detection-based processing (e.g., linear regression-based processing) in conjunction with the captured signals. For example, with respect to the linear regression-based processing, the position of each corner (e.g., four corners) of the identification card may be predicted, and based on the predicted positions of each corner of the identification card, the center of the identification card may be derived / determined.

[0076] In one embodiment, the processor 204 may be configured to perform image-based processing in conjunction with the input signals to graphically present (e.g., in the form of a GUI) a set of detection points such that the detection points are visually perceivable via the display 206.

[0077] In one embodiment, the storage device may carry a set of instructions that, when executed (e.g., by the processor 204):

[0078] Cause at least one display 206 to display a set of detection points, where each detection point in the set of detection points is associated with a position on the display 206;

[0079] Cause at least one imaging device 202 to capture data associated with an identification card associated with the customer, where the captured data is associated with at least one image of the identification card; and

[0080] Cause at least one processor 204 to process the captured data to determine the position of each corner of the identification card and / or the center of the identification card.

[0081] Generally speaking, according to one embodiment, the apparatus 102 (e.g., a smart phone) that can be associated with the authentication / verification process is contemplated herein. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the authentication / verification process can be associated with an authentication method, which will be discussed in more detail later with reference to Figure 5a and Figure 5b the authentication method.

[0082] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the apparatus 102 may include a capturing device 202 (e.g., a camera), a processor 204 (e.g., a microprocessor), and a display 206 (e.g., a screen).

[0083] In one embodiment, the capturing device 202 and the display 206 may be coupled to the processor 204.

[0084] The capturing device 202 may capture data associated with the identification card. The identification card may be associated with a customer. In addition, the captured data may be associated with at least one image of the identification card (i.e., at least one captured image of the identification card).

[0085] The processor 204 may process the captured data in a certain way to determine the position of each corner of the identification card and / or the center of the identification card.

[0086] The display 206 may display a set of detection points. Each detection point in the set of detection points may be associated with a position / location on the display 206.

[0087] In addition, the apparatus 102 may be controlled (e.g., by the customer by positioning the apparatus 102 relative to the identification card and / or positioning the identification card relative to the apparatus 102) such that the capturing device 202 can capture an image of the identification card to be consistent with the corresponding detection point (e.g., in terms of position / location). For example, authentication may be determined to be successful after it is determined that all captured images of the identification card (i.e., the captured images of the identification card) are consistent with the corresponding detection points.

[0088] In one embodiment, the set of detection points may include at least one initial detection point and at least one subsequent detection point. The set of detection points may be displayed on the display 206 in a sequential manner such that the initial detection point is displayed first, followed by the at least one subsequent detection point. In one example, the at least one subsequent detection point is displayed only after it is determined (e.g., by the aforementioned host device 104) that an image of the identity card taken in response to the displayed initial detection point matches the initial detection point. Additionally, the authentication process may be aborted, for example, due to a failure to display the at least one subsequent detection point after a predetermined period of time from the time the initial detection point is displayed.

[0089] In another embodiment, the set of detection points may include a plurality of detection points. The plurality of detection points may be synchronously displayed on the display 206 such that the plurality of detection points can be visually perceived at the same time (simultaneously). The authentication process may be aborted, for example, due to a failure of an image taken (i.e., an image capture) after a predetermined period of time to match the corresponding detection point.

[0090] According to another embodiment, a device 102 (e.g., a smart phone) that may be associated with the authentication / verification process is contemplated herein. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the authentication / verification process may be associated with an authentication method, which will be discussed in more detail later with reference to Figure 5a and Figure 5b the authentication method will be discussed in more detail.

[0091] The device 102 may include at least one display 206 and at least one imaging device 202. The device 102 may also include at least one processor 204, which is coupled to the at least one display 206 and / or the at least one imaging device 202.

[0092] The device 102 may also include at least one storage device (not shown) coupled to the processor. The storage device may carry a set of instructions that, when executed (e.g., by the processor 204):

[0093] cause the at least one display 206 to display a set of detection points, each detection point in the set of detection points being associated with a position on the display 206;

[0094] cause the at least one imaging device 202 to capture data associated with an identity card associated with a customer, the captured data being associated with at least one image of the identity card; and

[0095] cause the at least one processor 204 to process the captured data to determine the position of each corner of the identity card and / or the center of the identity card.

[0096] An image of the identity card can be captured to match the corresponding detection point.

[0097] According to the embodiments disclosed below, the set of detection points will be discussed in the context of exemplary embodiments.

[0098] Reference Figure 3 shows an exemplary embodiment 300 associated with the set of detection points 302 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] As shown, the set of detection points 302 may include a plurality of detection points (e.g., a first detection point 302a, a second detection point 302b, a third detection point 302c, and a fourth detection point 302d).

[0100] In one embodiment, with respect to the sequential display manner of the set of detection points, the first detection point 302a may correspond to the aforementioned initial detection point, and the second to fourth detection points 302b / 302c / 302d may correspond to the aforementioned at least one subsequent detection point.

[0101] In one embodiment, with respect to the synchronous display manner of the set of detection points, the first to fourth detection points 302a / 302b / 302c / 302d may be visually perceived on the display 206 at the same time (i.e., simultaneously). In addition, the first to fourth detection points 302a / 302b / 302c / 302d may be visually perceived as being displayed based on a predetermined pattern (e.g., a zigzag-based pattern), for example.

[0102] Moreover, it is contemplated herein that the set of detection points may include fewer or more detection points than the first to fourth detection points 302a / 302b / 302c / 302d as shown Figure 3 For example.

[0103] Considering the aforementioned authentication / verification manner, it can be understood that the customer / client will be required to actually use the identity card and take an image of the identity card based on the above set of detection points. It is expected that an unauthorized party / person attempting to use a high-resolution screenshot of the identity card will have great difficulty at least in impersonating a real identity card with the high-resolution screenshot of the identity card, because the screenshot will not be considered to be taken in the manner of contacting the set of detection points discussed earlier. In this way, since circumvention can be prevented, the reliability of authentication / verification can be improved.

[0104] In addition, it is contemplated herein that by taking an image of the identity card based on the aforementioned set of detection points, complex training and / or reliance on large data samples, etc. will not be required. Therefore, verification techniques that require a large amount of data and / or large-scale training samples (e.g., moiré-based analysis) will not be required. In this way, the efficiency of authentication / verification can potentially be improved.

[0105] In one example, the apparatus 102 and / or the host device 104 may correspond to and / or be associated with a computing device. This will be discussed in the context of an exemplary computing device in the following text. Figure 4 in the context of the exemplary computing device

[0106] Figure 4 An exemplary computing device 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which may be interchangeably referred to as computer system 400 hereinafter. A description of the computing device 400 is provided hereinafter by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0107] As Figure 4 shown, the exemplary computing device 400 includes a processor 404 for executing software routines. Although a single processor is shown for clarity, the computing device 400 may also include a multiprocessor system. The processor 404 is connected to a communication infrastructure 406 to communicate with other components of the computing device 400. The communication infrastructure 406 may include, for example, a communication bus, a crossbar switch, or a network.

[0108] The computing device 400 also includes a main memory 408 such as random access memory (RAM) and an auxiliary memory 410. The auxiliary memory 410 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 412 and / or a removable storage drive 414. The removable storage drive 414 may include a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, etc. The removable storage drive 414 reads from and / or writes to a removable storage unit 418 in a well-known manner. The removable storage unit 418 may include a floppy disk, a tape, an optical disk, etc. that are read from and written to by the removable storage drive 414. As will be understood by those skilled in the relevant art, the removable storage unit 418 includes a computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code instructions and / or data stored therein.

[0109] In an alternative embodiment, the auxiliary memory 410 may additionally or alternatively include other similar devices for allowing a computer program or other instructions to be loaded into the computing device 400. Such devices may include, for example, a removable storage unit 422 and an interface 420. Examples of the removable storage unit 422 and the interface 420 include a program cartridge and a cartridge interface (such as the interface in a video game console device), a removable storage chip (such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or a programmable read-only memory (PROM)) and an associated socket, and other removable storage units 422 and interfaces 420 that allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 422 to the computer system 400.

[0110] The computing device 400 also includes at least one communication interface 424. The communication interface 424 allows software and data to be transmitted between the computing device 400 and external devices via a communication path 426. In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the communication interface 424 allows data to be transmitted between the computing device 400 and a data communication network such as a public data or private data communication network. The communication interface 424 can be used to exchange data between different computing devices 400 that form part of an interconnected computer network. Examples of the communication interface 424 can include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, an antenna with associated circuitry, etc. The communication interface 424 can be wired or can be wireless. The software and data transmitted via the communication interface 424 are in the form of signals, which can be electrical, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals that can be received by the communication interface 424. These signals are provided to the communication interface via the communication path 426.

[0111] As Figure 4 shown, the computing device 400 also includes: a display interface 402 that performs operations for presenting images to an associated display 430; and an audio interface 432 that performs operations for playing audio content via an associated speaker 434.

[0112] As used herein, the term "computer program product" can refer in part to a removable storage unit 418, a removable storage unit 422, a hard disk installed in a hard disk drive 412, or a carrier wave carrying software via a communication path 426 (wireless link or cable) to the communication interface 424.

[0113] A computer-readable storage medium refers to any non-transitory tangible storage medium that provides recorded instructions and / or data to the computing device 400 for execution and / or processing. Examples of such storage media include floppy disks, magnetic tapes, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), universal optical discs / digital video discs (DVDs), Blu-ray TM ) optical discs, hard disk drives, ROMs or integrated circuits, universal serial bus (USB) memories, magneto-optical discs, or computer-readable cards such as personal computer memory card international association (PCMCIA) cards, whether these devices are internal or external to the computing device 400. Examples of transient or non-tangible computer-readable transmission media that can also participate in providing software, applications, instructions, and / or data to the computing device 400 include radio or infrared transmission channels and network connections to another computer or networked device, as well as the Internet or Ethernet, etc. that include information recorded on email transmissions and websites, etc.

[0114] A computer program (also referred to as computer program code) is stored in the main memory 408 and / or the secondary memory 410. A computer program can also be received via the communication interface 424. Such a computer program, when executed, enables the computing device 400 to perform one or more features of the embodiments discussed herein. In various embodiments, the computer program, when executed, enables the processor 404 to perform the features of the above-described embodiments. Thus, such a computer program represents the controller of the computer system 400.

[0115] Software can be stored in a computer program product and can be loaded into the computing device 400 using a removable storage drive 414, a hard disk drive 412, or the interface 420. Optionally, the computer program product can be downloaded to the computer system 400 via the communication path 426. The software, when executed by the processor 404, enables the computing device 400 to perform the functions of the embodiments described herein.

[0116] It should be understood that Figure 4 the embodiments of are given by way of example only. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more features of the computing device 400 can be omitted. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more features of the computing device 400 can be combined together. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more features of the computing device 400 can be divided into one or more components.

[0117] It should be understood that Figure 4 the elements shown are provided to provide means for performing the various functions and operations of the server as described in the above embodiments.

[0118] In an embodiment, a server can generally be described as a physical device including at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the physical device to perform the necessary operations.

[0119] Referring to Figure 5a , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an authentication method 500 associated with the system 100 is shown. The authentication method 500 may be useful for authentication / verification (e.g., for authentication / verification associated with one or more customers / clients by using an identification card belonging to the customer / client).

[0120] The authentication method 500 can include any one or any combination of an input step 502, an output step 504, and a processing (or "generating") step 506.

[0121] Regarding the input step 502, one or more input signals can be transmitted to the device 102. The input signals can be associated with a set of detection points, and the set of detection points can include a plurality of detection points.

[0122] Regarding output step 504, the apparatus 102 may generate one or more output signals. The output signals may be associated with, for example, one or more captured images of an identification card belonging to a customer / client.

[0123] Regarding processing step 506, the output signals may be processed in some way to determine whether the captured images are consistent with a plurality of detection points. In one embodiment, the output signals may be processed by, for example, the host device 104.

[0124] Generally, an authentication method 500 is contemplated herein, which may include providing a set of detection points. The set of detection points may include a plurality of detection points (302a / 302b / 302c / 302d). The detection points (302a / 302b / 302c / 302d) may be visually perceived (e.g., by a customer / client), for example, on the apparatus 102 (e.g., via the display of the apparatus 102).

[0125] The authentication method 500 may further include capturing a plurality of images of an identification card (e.g., belonging to a customer / client) using the apparatus 102. The plurality of images can be captured to be consistent with the plurality of detection points (302a / 302b / 302c / 302d) (i.e., in terms of position / location).

[0126] If the captured images are consistent with the detection points (i.e., in terms of position / location), the authentication / verification may be considered successful.

[0127] It is contemplated herein that, in one embodiment, when capturing a plurality of images, the apparatus 102 may be controllably moved (e.g., by a customer / client). The apparatus 102 may be controllably moved such that the plurality of captured images may be consistent with the set of detection points in terms of the position / location at which the plurality of detection points are displayed on the apparatus 102.

[0128] Reference Figure 5b , shows a flowchart of an exemplary authentication / verification processing embodiment 550 associated with the authentication method 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] The exemplary authentication / verification processing embodiment 550 may include, for example, a first step 550a, a second step 550b, a third step 550c, a fourth step 550d, a fifth step 550e, and a sixth step 550f, or any combination thereof.

[0130] In the first step 550a (i.e., "start"), the user (e.g., a customer / client) may hold the identification card with one hand and hold the apparatus 102 with the other hand to capture an image of the identification card.

[0131] In the second step 550b (i.e., "detect identity card at start point"), the user may be prompted to place the identity card in alignment with the first detection point 302a (as displayed on the display screen of the device 102). An identity card detection method (e.g., a linear regression method for predicting the corners of the identity card and calculating the center of the identity card based on the predicted positions of the corners) can be used to determine (e.g., predict) the positioning of the identity card. If it can be determined (i.e., "Is the identity card present?") that the positioning of the identity card matches the first detection point 302a, the user may be prompted to place the identity card in alignment with the second detection point 302b (i.e., "Yes" indicates proceeding to the third step 550c). Otherwise (i.e., the positioning of the identity card does not match the first detection point 302a), the authentication / verification may be considered a failure (i.e., "No" indicates), and for example, terminated / aborted (e.g., by: returning to the first step 550a / preventing entry into the third step 550c / remaining in the second step 550b, where in the second step 550b, the user may be continuously prompted to re-place the identity card relative to the first detection point 302a. In one embodiment, if the identity card cannot be detected within a certain time period (e.g., a time period of 15 seconds or 30 seconds), the authentication / verification may be terminated / aborted (e.g., by: returning to the first step 550a / preventing proceeding to the third step 550c / remaining in the second step 550b).

[0132] In the third step 550c (i.e., "detect the identity card at point B"), the user can be prompted to place the identity card to be consistent with the second detection point 302b (as shown on the display screen of the device 102). The third step 550c can be similar to the second step 550b. In this regard, the previously discussed relevant parts related to the second step 550b similarly apply to the third step 550c. If it can be determined (i.e., "Is the identity card present?") that the positioning of the identity card matches the second detection point 302b, the user can be prompted to place the identity card to be consistent with the third detection point 302c (i.e., "Yes" indicates proceeding to the fourth step 550d). Otherwise (i.e., the positioning of the identity card does not match the second detection point 302b), the authentication / verification can be regarded as failed (i.e., "No" indicates), and for example, terminated / aborted (e.g., by: returning to the first step 550a or the second step 550b / preventing proceeding to the fourth step 550d / remaining in the third step 550c, where in the third step 550c, the user can be continuously prompted to re-place the identity card relative to the second detection point 302b). In one embodiment, if the identity card cannot be detected within a certain time period (e.g., a time period of 15 seconds or 30 seconds), the authentication / verification can be terminated / aborted (e.g., by: returning to the first step 550a or the second step 550b / preventing proceeding to the fourth step 550d / remaining in step 550c).

[0133] In the fourth step 550d (i.e., "detect the identity card at point C"), the user can be prompted to place the identity card to align with the third detection point 302c (as shown on the display screen of the device 102). The fourth step 550d can be similar to the second step 550b. In this regard, the previously discussed relevant parts related to the second step 550b similarly apply to the fourth step 550d. If it can be determined (i.e., "Is the identity card present?") that the position of the identity card matches the third detection point 302c, the user can be prompted to place the identity card to align with the fourth detection point 302d (i.e., "Yes" indication to proceed to the fifth step 550e). Otherwise (i.e., the positioning of the identity card does not match the third detection point 302c), the authentication / verification can be considered a failure (i.e., "No" indication), and for example, terminated / aborted (e.g., by returning to the first step 550a or the third step 550c / preventing proceeding to the fifth step 550e / remaining in the fourth step 550d, where in the fourth step, the user can be continuously prompted to re-place the identity card relative to the third detection point 302c). In one embodiment, if the identity card cannot be detected within a certain time period (e.g., a 15-second or 30-second time period), the authentication / verification can be terminated / aborted (e.g., by returning to the first step 550a or the third step 550c / preventing proceeding to the fifth step 550e / remaining in the fourth step 550d).

[0134] In the fifth step 550e (i.e., "ID card present at endpoint"), the user may be prompted to position the ID card to coincide with the fourth detection point 302d (as displayed on the display screen of the device 102). The fifth step 550e may be similar to the second step 550b. In this regard, the relevant portions of the previous discussion related to the second step 550b are similarly applicable to the fifth step 550e. If it can be determined (i.e., "ID card present?") that the positioning of the ID card matches the fourth detection point 302d, then the verification / authentication may be deemed successful (i.e., "yes" indication to proceed to the sixth step 550f). Otherwise (i.e., the positioning of the identification card does not match the fourth detection point 302d), the authentication / verification may be deemed a failure (i.e., a "no" indication), and, for example, terminated / aborted (e.g., by returning to the first step 550a or the fourth step 550d / preventing the sixth step 550f / remaining in the fifth step 550e, in which, for example, the user may be continually prompted to reposition the identification card relative to the fourth detection point 302d). In one embodiment, if the identification card cannot be detected within a certain time period (e.g., a time period of 15 seconds or 30 seconds), the authentication / verification may be terminated / aborted (e.g., by returning to the first step 550a or the fourth step 550d / preventing the sixth step 550f / remaining in the fifth step 550e).

[0135] At a sixth step 550f (ie, "Complete"), the verification / authentication may be considered successful and complete.

[0136] It is understood that based on the above steps (the first to sixth steps 550a / 550b / 550c / 550d / 550e or any combination thereof), attempts to circumvent authentication / verification by, for example, generating a high-definition screen can be prevented. In this regard, the integrity of the authentication / verification can be maintained. It is understood that a robust authentication / verification process / method according to the authentication method 500 discussed earlier (and the exemplary authentication / verification process embodiment 550 associated therewith) can be facilitated.

[0137] refer to Figure 6 , shows an example of modules of an apparatus 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 600 may be an example of an embodiment of the aforementioned apparatus 102.

[0138] As shown, the apparatus 600 may include a first module 602 and a second module 604. The first module 602 may be associated with the aforementioned photographing device 202. The second module 604 may be associated with the aforementioned processor 204.

[0139] Specifically, the apparatus 600 may include a first module 602 for acquiring / capturing data / information associated with a customer / client to generate and transmit one or more capture signals.

[0140] The apparatus 600 may further include a second module 602 that processes the capture signals and / or the aforementioned received input signals to generate one or more output signals.

[0141] For example, Figure 6 may be interpreted as showing the internal functional modules and / or structure of an apparatus (i.e., the aforementioned apparatus 102) that may be associated with a route-based detection strategy to achieve reliable and effective authentication and / or verification in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0142] Those skilled in the art should further understand that variations and combinations of the above features, rather than being substitutes or replacements, may be combined to form other embodiments.

[0143] In one example, although the foregoing discussion is generally in the context of one or more identity cards, other forms of identification (for purposes of verification / authentication) may be useful herein. One example is face-based recognition (i.e., face recognition).

[0144] In another example, it was earlier discussed that the host device 104 may be configured to receive and process the output signals in a manner to determine whether the captured image is substantially consistent with the corresponding detection point in terms of location. It is contemplated herein that, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the determination of whether the captured image is substantially consistent with the corresponding detection point may be made (e.g., by way of comparison-based processing) at the apparatus 102 (in which case, the transmission of the output signals to the host device 104 may be optional). Thus, it can be understood that, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the apparatus 102 and / or the host device 104 may be configured to determine (e.g., by comparison-based processing) whether the captured image is substantially consistent with the corresponding detection point in terms of location.

[0145] In another example, instead of controllably moving the apparatus 102 to capture one or more images of the identity card, the identity card may be controllably moved while the apparatus 102 remains stationary.

[0146] In another example, the apparatus 102 and the identity card may be controllably moved relative to each other (e.g., the apparatus 102 and the identity card may move relative to each other simultaneously).

[0147] In the foregoing manner, various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described to address at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. Such embodiments are intended to be covered by the appended claims and are not limited to the specific forms or arrangements of the components described, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the present disclosure that many changes and / or modifications can be made, which are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for detecting an identity card, comprising: at least one display; at least one imaging device; at least one processor coupled to at least one of the at least one display and the at least one imaging device; and at least one storage device coupled to the processor and carrying an instruction set which, when executed: causes the at least one display to display a set of detection points, each detection point in the set of detection points being associated with a position on the display, wherein the set of detection points includes a plurality of detection points, the plurality of detection points including at least one initial detection point and at least one subsequent detection point, and the display order of the at least one initial detection point precedes the display order of the at least one subsequent detection point; causes the at least one imaging device to capture data associated with the identity card associated with the customer, the captured data being associated with at least one image of the identity card; and causes the at least one processor to process the captured data to determine the position of each corner of the identity card and / or the center of the identity card, wherein the image of the identity card can be captured to be consistent with the corresponding detection point; and wherein the at least one subsequent detection point is displayed only after it is determined that the image of the identity card captured in response to the displayed initial detection point is consistent with the initial detection point.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the set of detection points includes at least one initial detection point and at least one subsequent detection point, and the set of detection points is displayed on the display in a sequential manner such that the initial detection point is displayed first and then the at least one subsequent detection point is displayed.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is associated with an authentication process, and authentication is determined to be successful after it is determined that all captured images of the identity card are consistent with the corresponding detection points.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the authentication process is aborted due to failure to display the at least one subsequent detection point after a predetermined period of time from the time the initial detection point is displayed.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the set of detection points includes a plurality of detection points that can be synchronously displayed on the display such that the plurality of detection points can be visually perceived simultaneously, the device is associated with an authentication process, and authentication is determined to be successful after it is determined that all captured images of the identity card are consistent with the corresponding detection points; and the authentication process is aborted due to failure of the captured image to match the corresponding detection point after a predetermined period of time.

6. A method for authenticating an identity card, comprising: providing a set of detection points, the set of detection points including a plurality of detection points that can be visually perceived on a device, each detection point in the set of detection points being associated with a position on the device, the plurality of detection points including at least one initial detection point and at least one subsequent detection point, and the display order of the at least one initial detection point preceding the display order of the at least one subsequent detection point; Take a plurality of images of the identity card using the device, the plurality of images being taken to be consistent with the plurality of detection points, wherein, if the captured image is consistent with the detection point, the authentication is successful; wherein at least one subsequent detection point is displayed only after it is determined that the image of the identity card taken in response to the initially displayed detection point is consistent with the initial detection point.

7. The authentication method according to claim 6, wherein, when taking the plurality of images, the device is controllably moved so that, with respect to the positions of the plurality of detection points displayed on the device, the plurality of captured images are consistent with the set of detection points.

Images