Face biometrics – first defence against identity fraud

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Face biometrics provides a critical first line of technology defence against rising identity fraud. Identity fraud has surged, with impersonation fraud increasing by 356% from April 2022 to April 2023, according to Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS).

The investigation into former Miss SA contestant Chidimma Adetshina’s citizenship highlights the social impact of falsified identity. At the same time, South Africa’s greylisted status pressures governments and businesses to combat money laundering and financial fraud.

Face biometrics as a critical defense against identity fraud

The implementation of the two-pot pension system on 1 September has raised concerns over fraud targeting consumer funds. These crimes can be stopped by using biometric digital identity, a powerful and effective defense.

Stolen identity has significant consequences. It denies individuals access to essential services such as voting, banking, and housing. In South Africa, falsified identities have even led to the theft of critical social grants. Businesses also suffer, as fake identities enable theft of funds and data.

From any perspective, a valid biometric identity can prevent the rise of digital identity-based crimes in South Africa.

Identity as a human right

Valid digital identity promotes inclusivity across gender, location, and education lines. In South Africa, undocumented citizens face barriers to accessing social grants and healthcare. Those with valid IDs still endure long queues due to inefficient identification processes.

Systemic inequality and slow adoption of digital technologies exacerbate these challenges. Identity verification is not merely administrative; it represents an essential human right.

A proven identity is essential for legal employment, address registration, phone contracts, and bank accounts. Widespread, effective digital identification benefits citizens and generates economic value for governments and financial institutions.

The case for face biometrics technology

Physical documentation remains vulnerable to impersonation fraud, as seen in Chidimma Adetshina’s case. Even traditional verification methods, like fingerprints and OTPs, are increasingly unreliable. Cybercriminals now exploit deepfake technology to replicate voices and identities.

Face biometrics technology is the most effective solution across Africa. Its simplicity and familiarity make it accessible to consumers. People are comfortable taking selfies, which can now be authenticated using 4D Liveness technology. This verifies the selfie against government databases, ensuring identity authenticity.

Proof of liveness confirms that a real, living person conducts a transaction. While cybercriminals can mine data and override systems, forging biometric human liveness is much harder.

The rise of identity theft is alarming, but the right technology can address this challenge. Businesses and government departments must urgently collaborate to secure individual identities and reduce identity-based crimes.


Gur Geva | Founder | CEO | iiDENTIFii | mail me |



Related FAQs: Face biometrics 

Q: What are facial biometrics and how do they work?

A: Facial biometrics refers to the technology that uses facial recognition to identify or verify a person’s identity. It works by analysing the unique facial features and characteristics of an individual, comparing them against stored biometric data in a biometric system for authentication.

Q: How does biometric verification help prevent identity fraud?

A: Biometric verification enhances security measures by providing a more reliable means of identity verification compared to traditional methods like passwords or PINs. By using unique biometric characteristics, such as facial features, it becomes significantly harder for fraudsters to commit identity theft and financial fraud.

Q: What is the role of facial biometrics in fraud prevention?

A: The role of facial biometrics in fraud prevention is crucial, as it allows for accurate detection of individuals attempting to access sensitive information or accounts. This technology can identify fraudulent activities in real-time, thus helping to combat fraud effectively.

Q: Are facial recognition technologies reliable for authentication?

A: Yes, facial recognition technologies are generally reliable for authentication. They utilise advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence to ensure high accuracy in detecting and verifying identities, which aids in preventing identity fraud.

Q: What are the types of biometric systems used for identity verification?

A: The types of biometric systems used for identity verification include facial recognition, voice recognition, fingerprint scanning and iris recognition. Each of these types of biometrics provides a different layer of security and can be used in various combinations to enhance fraud detection.

Q: How does liveness detection improve biometric authentication?

A: Liveness detection improves biometric authentication by ensuring that the biometric data being presented is from a live person rather than a spoof or a static image. This technology helps prevent identity theft by making it more difficult for fraudsters to use fake information to gain access.

Q: Can behavioural biometrics be used alongside facial biometrics for better security?

A: Yes, behavioural biometrics can be used alongside facial biometrics to provide an additional layer of security. By analysing patterns in user behaviour, such as typing speed and mouse movements, it becomes easier to detect anomalies that may indicate fraudulent activities.

Q: What challenges do biometric systems face in fraud detection?

A: Biometric systems may face challenges such as spoofing attempts, changes in facial features due to aging or medical conditions and privacy concerns. However, advancements in technology, such as AI and improved algorithms, are continuously enhancing the effectiveness of these systems in preventing identity fraud.

Q: How do businesses implement biometrics for fraud prevention?

A: Businesses implement biometrics for fraud prevention by integrating biometric technologies into their authentication solutions. This includes using facial recognition for customer verification during account creation or transactions, which helps to reduce the risk of account takeover and fraudulent activities.

Q: What should consumers know about the security of their biometric data?

A: Consumers should know that while biometric data enhances security, it is also sensitive information that needs to be protected. It is important to use services that employ strong encryption and secure biometric systems to safeguard against potential data breaches and ensure their information remains confidential.



 



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