Using biometrics to prevent identity theft

The Sixth Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Conference recently took place under the theme "Ideas that Work for Industrial Development." At the event, CNBC Africa had the opportunity to interview Anne Singh, a laser scientist, about her groundbreaking work on a fingerprint authentication technology aimed at combating identity theft. Singh is pioneering the use of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to acquire high-resolution 3D fingerprints, revolutionizing the conventional method of fingerprinting. This innovative technology promises to provide enhanced security measures in various fields beyond biometrics. Singh explains that OCT is a non-contact and non-invasive light-based technique that can capture internal as well as external fingerprints, unlike traditional 2D systems that only record surface details. While OCT has predominantly been used in biomedical applications such as diagnosing skin conditions and evaluating medical samples, its potential extends to diverse sectors like dentistry, ophthalmology, material science, and art authentication. The integration of OCT in biometrics represents a novel advancement in the field, offering a new level of precision and detail in fingerprint recognition. When asked about the timeline for implementing this technology on a wider scale, Singh reveals that while OCT systems are already available in the market for various applications, the fingerprinting technology is still in the developmental phase. She anticipates that within the next year, the fingerprint authentication system could be ready for deployment. Singh mentions ongoing discussions with a company to introduce the technology across different sectors in South Africa, indicating a proactive approach towards enhancing security measures and combating identity theft. The potential of OCT in fingerprint authentication goes beyond conventional security measures, promising a more robust and reliable method of verifying individual identities. The integration of OCT technology in biometrics heralds a new era of enhanced security solutions, with applications spanning across industries and sectors. As advancements in OCT continue to evolve, the possibilities for leveraging this technology for effective identity verification are vast and promising. In conclusion, the innovative use of OCT for fingerprint authentication holds significant promise in the ongoing battle against identity theft and fraudulent activities. Singh's pioneering work underscores the importance of leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address security challenges in the digital age, setting a new standard for biometric authentication and identity verification.