Digital identity authentication through facial recognition is a technology that is not only necessary but also innovative.
by Marcelo Victorino*
Currently, digital identity authentication technology through facial recognition has been increasingly used. In the current context of the pandemic, many previously used technologies have become unsafe due to the spread of the Covid-19 virus through physical contact.
This is the case, for example, of fingerprint authentication, where the touch of the equipment does not adhere to the hygiene standards established during the global pandemic. According to Omdia's latest market report, the digital identity authentication industry is expected to reach US$28.5 billion by the end of 2021.
In the case of SAFR, in particular, RealNetworks' facial recognition and computer vision software, digital identity authentication works as a guarantee of security in activities that require greater caution and care in the daily life of society.
Payment authentication, online identity verification, multi-factor authentication, access control to restricted areas and liveness detection are some examples in which touchless technology can be applied to ensure greater security and hygiene to its users.
SAFR has been used for digital authentication at events, schools and businesses since 2017. One case that stands out is the case of St. Therese Catholic Academy, a school in Seattle, United States, which was one of the first to use facial recognition, in 2018. Feedback from the school's principal, Matt DeBoer, was that teachers reduced their concern for the safety of students and themselves, and were able to focus more on teaching.
I think a lot of people know that American schools have suffered shooting attacks that have resulted in horrific massacres throughout history. Our software has contributed to increasing security and, consequently, to preventing this type of event, which makes us feel extremely fulfilled.
In Brazil, it is worth mentioning our work in partnership with Digifort and the city of Praia Grande, São Paulo, which reduced crime in the monitored areas by 80%. Contributing to the betterment of society is our main objective.
For the user, the technology works extremely simply, as it is the software that adapts to the user and not the other way around. SAFR is rated by NIST (Institute of Technology Standards) and has an accuracy of 99.87% in live video. This means that the user does not have to stop what he is doing for a few seconds to look at the camera and have his identity validated, he can follow his routine normally and the program detects his face. The user only needs to pass in front of the camera that is connected to the SAFR, be it IP camera, laptop, smartphone or other devices.
One point that cannot be ignored when talking about facial authentication is data protection. The system fully complies with data protection laws, both the LGPD in Brazil and the GDPR in Europe.
Digital identity authentication through facial recognition is a technology that is not only necessary but also innovative. It provides greater security, since it is able to prevent fraudulent attempts, protecting users against data breaches and reducing the risks and losses that these actions can bring to companies and individuals.
In addition, being a non-contact technology, it also allows greater security in relation to the spread, not only of the new coronavirus, but also of other diseases that can be transmitted by physical contact.
* Marcelo Victorino is Senior Director of Sales and Business Development for LATAM at RealNetworks Inc (NASDAQ: RNWK) - pioneer in video solutions, a global company based in Seattle (USA). He has a track record of more than two decades in leadership and management in the areas of sales, prospecting, marketing and new business. He specializes in the creation and development of technology and innovation projects and represents the SAFR facial recognition platform for LATAM.
