Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.hardware (
More info?)
Are you saying that a "close" fingerprint is good enough to get you into a
banks website to conduct transactions? If that's the case the whole thing is
a joke. If it isn't for security (no one else has MY fingerprint) what good
is it?
--
Regards,
Richard Urban
If you knew as much as you think you know,
You would realize that you don't know what you thought you knew!
"Lawrence A. Wong" <lawrence-wong@sympatico.ca> wrote in message
news:%23c2O3RWcFHA.3120@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
> Chris: The fingerprint reader should react instantly. Make sure that it is
> connected to a USB 2.0 port (a USB 1.0 or 1.1 port may be the cause of the
> delay). Also make sure you have the latest drivers and software
> (DigitalPersona) for the reader.
>
> As for Mr Urban's comments
>
> I'm sorry to say, but he is incorrect. Allow me to explain...
>
> I have the fingerprint reader. The idea is that it is meant for PURE
> CONVENIENCE and NOT enhance security.
>
> The point of the fingerprint reader is so that by recongnizing the
> fingerprint, it can insert the appropriate username and password for the
> website. The fingerprint reader is also used for switching users using
> Windows XP. The fingerprint reader only uses images to compare
> fingerprints. If it is a close enough match, it will type in the password
> and username "attached" to that finger.
>
> If you read the instruction manual, it clearly states that it is not for
> security purposes, nor does it have a fail safe way of preventing unwanted
> access. Truth of the matter is if you know the username and password, you
> can enter it using the keyboard and totally bypass the reader.
>
> In addition to that, it also states that it is inappropriate to use the
> fingerprint reader to log on to Domains and some networks.
>
> A Fingerprint reader should be used for convienience. It's simply a device
> that does all the password remembering for you. It does not enhance
> security in anyway and can be very easily bypassed, especially if you
> already know the log in information.
>
> If you try to log into a banks website to check an account, you can either
> use the fingerprint reader or just type the information. As for logging
> into windows, you can unplug the fingerprint reader before Windows boots
> up (although you don't have to) and just press CTRL + Alt + Del and type
> in the log in info.
>
> --
> Lawrence Wong
> Troubleshooting Specialist, IT Department
> All-Connect Logistical Services Inc.
>