APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR IDENTITY VERIFICATION

摘要

An identity verification device comprises a cellular telecommunications modem and a fingerprint scanner coupled to the modem, the verification device being configured for storing first fingerprint data in an enrolment process and being operable, in response to the modem receiving a verification command via a cellular telecommunications network, to perform a verification process in which the fingerprint scanner scans a fingerprint to obtain second fingerprint data, the first and second fingerprint data are compared with each other, and in the event of a match between the first and second fingerprint data, the modem transmits a response signal to a predetermined destination via the telecommunications network. The device may be used in a networked telecommunications system in which the electronic transactions may be initiated by smart cards and other devices.

主权项

1. A method of authorising an electronic transaction or process to be performed utilising an electronic transaction device which cooperates with a terminal apparatus which is responsive to said transaction device for generating instructions for the performance of said electronic transaction or process, the method comprising:
(a) receiving a verification command at a verification device which comprises a biometric sensor and has first biometric data stored therein, said verification device being separate from said transaction device and said terminal, said verification command being received via a telecommunications network independently of said terminal and said transaction device; (b) responsive to receipt of said verification command, performing by the verification device an authentication process which comprises the verification device obtaining, from said biometric sensor, second biometric data and comparing the first and second biometric data with each other; and (c) in the event of a match between said first and second biometric data, said verification device generating a response signal indicative of said match and transmitting said response signal, independently of said transaction device and said terminal, to a predetermined destination for authorising said transaction or process.