Fingerprints Are So Yesterday: Use the New Vein Scanner to Log In

Fujitsu has just announced a new security device that allows users to log in to Windows and other software application based on your veins map. The new gadget is supposed to replace the older fingerprint scanner that has been proven to be easily tricked into granting unauthorized access to the system.

Fujitsu's vein scanner is a sensor that comes embedded into a regular mouse. It identifies the individuals using their vein patterns, an unique map that is different from human to human. Despite the fact that the veins map is similar to fingerprints, it is impossible to be copied, duplicated or reproduced in an accurate manner to fool the embedded sensor.

Called the PalmSecure, the new device will hit the US market soon. The security kit features a mouse with an embedded PalmSecure authentication sensor and OmniPass software, as well as the OmniPass software application, that allows the sensor to use vein maps instead of passwords during the Windows authentication process.

According to Fujitsu, the new system will ensure better security than the fingerprint authentication, as the human veins in a hand have an unique pattern, and the accuracy of its sensor removes the shortcomings of the fingerprint readers: false negatives from dry or injured hands.

"For small and mid-size businesses struggling with security procedures and challenging compliance issues, the need for a biometric device conducive to their work environment is vital," said Joel Hagberg, vice president of Fujitsu America's marketing and business development, in a statement. "With the PalmSecure PC Log-In Kit, applications which require IDs and passwords, or log-ins to PCs, can now be done more efficiently and securely using palm vein biometric authentication."

Fujitsu will publicly introduce and demonstrate the log-in kit at the 2008 RSA security conference that will take place this week. However, it will not be available for sale through the company's retail channels until June this year. There is no word on pricing as of the moment of writing.