Customers at Halifax
bank could soon be able to prove their identities online using their heartbeat,
rather than a password - reported the SkyNews.
A
bracelet called a Nymi Band may be trialed which measures cardiac rhythms
unique to each person to keep them logged in online - without having to
remember passwords, codes and PIN numbers.
It
can authenticate a user when they place their finger on a tiny metal plate
fitted to the band, creating a circuit which can be used to check the user's electrocardiogram
or "cardiac signature" against a stored one.
The
user has access to a service for as long as they wear the band. If the band is
removed, the electrocardiogram is re-read once the device is placed around the
wrist again.
The
bracelet has been developed by Canadian company Bionym, which claims the
technology is more secure than other biometric proofs of identification.
As
well as being useful online, the band could also be used in a similar way to a
contactless payment card at tills.
Halifax
digital development director Marc Lien said: "We are in the very early
stages of exploring potential uses for the Nymi Band and wearable technology
more widely which will help us further understand how we can serve our
customers in the way that best appeals to their needs."
Other
banks are experimenting with digital payment technologies. Barclays has
released a band called BPay, which is worn around the wrist and can be used to
make payments of up to £20.
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