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28 Nov 2005 17:37:32
Computer passwords will become a thing of the past, says the University of Luton’s leading computer security expert, Professor Carsten Maple.
He believes that new authentication techniques such as scanning your face and the veins on your palm, and turning your signature into an audio signal, will become increasingly widespread in the coming years to help make businesses safer.
At 34, Carsten is the University of Luton’s youngest professor, and is internationally renowned for his expertise and leading edge research in the field of applicable computing.
He said: “Research into computer security has already indicated significant security flaws in using passwords and as a result, new authentication techniques will become widely available in the next decade.”
At a seminar at the University of Luton on 1 December, Carsten will address companies from across the region on Computer Security and Trust Issues for the Modern Business, covering topics such as threats to business, effective security management, new authentication techniques and how to gain consumer trust in e-commerce.
Carsten, who is widely published in his field, explained that computer security is a common problem facing companies today. “There are many circumstances where employees’ knowledge of passwords gives them access to valuable company information.
“When a disgruntled employee leaves, many businesses fail to appreciate the level of risk to which they are exposed. This knowledge can be used to damage a company’s reputation, despite the employee being faced with the consequences of breaking the law.”
The seminar, which is being hosted by the University’s M1 Knowledge Exchange, will cover the many options available to businesses that provide cost-effective solutions to prevent this happening.
“It all sounds quite futuristic,” said Carsten, “but technology is more sophisticated now. There are a number of new systems available for authentication including those which can scan the veins in your palm, generate 3D images of a user’s head by using infrared beams, and turn your signature into a personalised audio signal.”
He concedes that some emerging techniques are problematic: “Fingerprint scanning raises issues for individuals with disabilities, and fingerprint analysis is not always accurate.
“However the seminar provides an opportunity to discuss the methods that will be used in the coming years, including one I have developed here at the University.”
With media attention often being drawn to security failures and internet fraud, Carsten is keen to emphasise that gaining consumers’ trust and confidence is integral to the development of computer security technologies.
He added: “In reality, consumers are more likely to buy a second-hand car from someone in a suit as opposed to someone in a scruffy jacket. Similarly, when you are involved in e-commerce, the look and feel must be professional and engender trust.”
For further details about the seminar or to register for a place, contact the M1 Knowledge Exchange on freephone 0800 328 5338, email enquire@m1ke.org.uk or visit www.m1ke.org.uk.
Latest news» 2005» Nov» Luton Professor Brings Futuristic Technology to Local Businesses
