Challenging USB fingerprint scanner security protocol: a methodology using casting agents to capture digit and latent ridge detail to enable access

Abstract

Fingerprint scanners are used as a form of control with access limited to the beholder of the ridge detail. However, to what extent these devices are capable of providing that control has not been fully explored. This study tested the reliability of a fingerprint scanner in accessing enrolled fingerprint data, when faced with the challenge of fake fingerprints. Ridge detail casts were crafted from moulds, with gelatine and silicone being applied as casting agents. The second stage required participants to place fingerprints on a bottle or tile; these latent impressions were subsequently powdered using Magneta Flake. Provil, a forensic casting material was applied directly onto the powder, creating simulated fingerprints from a latent print. Each of the produced fingerprints then went through a scanning process. All materials tested were able to gain access through the participants' enrolled data. This suggests potential unreliability of the fingerprint scanner in storing pertinent data.

Ensuring Effective Secure Learning Environment using Authentication System in Terms of Cost and Time at Kumasi Technical University, Ghana

“…One cannot alter an already designed security set up of system device unless the user gets physical access to it [11]. Therefore, in case a thief get access to your phone the thief may be motivated to use a fake silicon finger, to trick the fingerprint reader unlock the phone and retrieve all interest information stored on the memory of the phone [12].…”