| 摘要 |
Access to data is provided via a system which comprises a data record associated with a stored access token signature, and a signature generator, operable to scan an access token to create a signature for the access token, the signature being based upon an intrinsic property eg surface features giving rise to scatter of coherent radiation, of the access token. The system can also comprise a comparator for comparing the created signature with the stored signature. The system can be operable to make the data record available in the event of a match between the stored signature and the created signature. Thus secure access to sensitive or private data can be controlled using an access token in the possession of an individual or entity described by or in the data record. A compensation valve may be determined between compared signatures to account for damage to the taken or variations in the signature generation. Rapid comparison may be effected by comparing thumbnails of signatures instead of complete signatures. Access may be effected over a network, including encrypting the signature prior to transmission. |
