Bioscrypt, a Toronto-based company, has claimed an industry first with its VisionAccess 3D DeskCam – a 3D camera that scans the users face using infrared and visible light for authentication purposes. The security scanning works by using 40,000 identification points, using specifics portions of the face. So far, tests have proved that the system can differentiate between identical twins. Ryan Zlockie, director of product management, claimed that facial hair will make no impact on the identification (no shaving before authentication necessary) but of course cosmetic surgery will require a person to reregister for the system.
The company is hoping the new camera will replace the need for passwords, tokens, or cards. The software with the camera automatically initiates network logon and/or single sign-on to pre-registered web-based or Microsoft Windows applications. A 3 inch tall, half inch wide, USB desktop version is expected for shipping to customers, integrators, and partners in the second half of 2007. "With the introduction of the VisionAccess DeskCam we are continuing to build out our multi-factor authentication solution set that facilitates the convergence of IT infrastructure and physical security systems. We are providing the platform to assist companies to unify identities across the organization by supporting a multitude of authentication methods used for access control. This support now extends to 3D face for IT security," said Robert L. Williams, President and CEO of Bioscrypt.