What is Typing Biometrics Authentication
Google’s AI-specialist arm, Gradient Ventures, has invested just under $7 million in a new authentication solution being developed by TypingDNA. The solution involves creating unique profiles for individuals based on their typing behavior. To do this TypingDNA has developed AI-based algorithms that analyze keystroke statistics about a user’s key presses and turns them into typing patterns. These patterns are then matched against previously recorded users’ patterns in their known accounts. According to TypingDNA, mimicking the way someone types to the level that is being evaluated by their platform is practically impossible. Thus, typing biometrics could be used as part of a 2-factor authentication process. Such a process would request users to type something online to gain access to a system or application.
Using Typing Biometric Authentication
Since keyboards are used whenever access to systems, applications or online apps is required, the way someone types is perhaps the most widely available biometric. Furthermore, this form of authentication does not invade people’s privacy as would face recognition or fingerprints, for example. Furthermore, it is hoped that typing biometric 2-factor authentication can overcome the short comings of other forms of authentication. The use of a username and password, for example, has not proven reliable. There are often reports of passwords being hacked or leaked. The use of 2-factor authentication is more secure, but currently this requires that users have their smartphones always at hand. This can be annoying. TypingDNA’s solution will provide a passive 2-factor authentication method. It is expected that TypingDNA’s solution will provide a simple, reliable and secure means for authentication and password recovery. It is also expected that it will better enable fraud detection.
Where is the Technology At?
Although typing biometrics is not a new technology, it has not yet been used for authentication purposes before. This is because the technology has not been accurate and reliable enough for this purpose. However, TypingDNA claims that their AI-based algorithms are between 99 and 99.9 percent accurate at identifying an individual through typing biometrics. Nonetheless, TypingDNA’s typing biometric authentication solution is still in development to make it 100 percent accurate. Thus, TypingDNA will be using the venture capital received from Google to develop their typing biometric based 2-factor authentication solution further and bring it to market.
Roll Out of Typing Biometric Authentication Solution
Once ready, TypingDNA intends to roll out their solution in the form of an API. This API would then be used in applications and systems wherever secure authentication is needed. If the solution meets expectations, Google is looking at integrating this API into its products and services. Darian Shirazi, general partner at Gradient Ventures stated: “We’re excited about TypingDNA’s developer-first approach to enable people to authenticate securely based on how they type. With global regulation impacting face-recognition-based authentication and hackers targeting SMS-based two-factor authentication, typing biometrics is the best form of identifying people without compromising privacy or security.” TypingDNA’s hopes to develop a user‑friendly system that provides better security for people worldwide.
