The Weekly Cypher is specially curated to keep you up-to-date on the latest in cybersecurity, biometrics, and related news and innovations. Here are a few of the headlines you might have missed this week.
Brainwave Recognition Could Be First ‘Reset-able’ Biometric | University at Buffalo
Researchers at the University at Buffalo are testing a new biometric that could be reset if compromised, like a password. The system measures brainwaves using electroencephalography, measuring how the subject reacts to a series of specific images chosen to stimulate specific parts of the brain, including the part that processes face recognition. The images include an animal, and a recognizable celebrity, and are shown for 1.2 seconds each, making the entire process take less than 5 seconds total. [Read More]
First International Smartphone Ships with In-Screen Fingerprint Sensor | The Verge
Vivo, one of the most popular smartphone brands in India and China, has launched the first device with an in-screen fingerprint sensor as a standard feature. Previously, all models released with this technology were limited runs or prototypes. The Vivo X21 is said to have a few flaws, such as the sensor covering a small area and not working well when a screen protector is used on the device, but it’s a major step forward in smartphone design. [Read More]
US Government Assigns New Energy Cybersecurity Leader | Cyberscoop
The White House Administration has named Karen Evans as the new assistant secretary for cybersecurity, energy security and emergency response. Security advocates have long said the nation’s energy infrastructure was at risk from cyber attack, and Evans’ role will be to lead efforts in improving the United States’ cybersecurity policy in this area. Evans former worked as an IT advisor to the president and served as a top IT official in the George W. Bush administration. [Read More]
Facebook Biometrics Trial Postponed | SecureID News
The lawsuit over Facebook’s use of facial recognition for advertising has been delayed again from its July 9 court date, providing more time to review the case in light of a recent U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruling that impacts it. The class action suit comes from Illinois, where the collection of biometric data and its use is more heavily regulated than in other states. Facebook has repeatedly pushed for the case to be dismissed, on the grounds that the plaintiffs cannot prove any harm has come from its use of the technology. [Read More]
