Fujitsu and Softex partner on biometric authentication and password management
Fujitsu and Softex announced that the Fujitsu PalmSecure biometric authentication device will be supported by Softex’s OmniPass software application for environments that require dual-layer identity management and authentication for secure data access. With this powerful combination, a complete high-security biometric solution is now available for both client and enterprise level applications.
A leading provider of innovative security software products and solutions for computing devices, Softex has shipped over five million units of its OmniPass software worldwide. The OmniPass software easily integrates
with biometric devices to manage passwords and secure data in a world where using only passwords for authentication is becoming less secure despite more stringent rules such as 90 day expirations as well as length and character requirements. Implementation of the software application allows for secured login and encryption and decryption of files, all without needing passwords.
With the integration of the OmniPass software alongside the high degree of security of vein pattern recognition, the PalmSecure sensor will be effectively positioned as a key component in the healthcare, government, and financial industries where strict regulations demand the latest in data protection and authentication.
The PalmSecure/OmniPass solution creates more secure environments by requiring users to prove their identity using their palm vein pattern. First, the users register their vein pattern against their access credentials where identities can be tracked and mapped to their provisioned applications. Subsequent scans are compared to the registered pattern and when a match is made, access is granted.
The Fujitsu PalmSecure biometric authentication device offers a contactless, hygienic and non-invasive means to authenticate identity by leveraging each person’s unique palm vein architecture. The sensor works by capturing a near-infrared image of the palm vein pattern. The proprietary algorithm takes this data, converts it into a digitized biometric template, and then matches it against a pre-registered template.
Softex’s OmniPass software is a PC client application that can be used by consumers and enterprises to securely login to websites and applications (SSO) as well as protect data on a PC. It can also be used to secure e-mail, VPN and certificate private key access. The OmniPass software supports multiple authentication devices and can be configured for multifactor authentication using a variety of authentication devices connected to the PC. The enterprise can implement a certain security strategy today, for example biometrics or smart cards, but as an enterprise grows and business requirements change, support for new devices, such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chips or custom tokens, can be easily added.
The pairing of the PalmSecure sensor and the OmniPass software builds on the existing relationship between the two companies. Softex also supplies the software used for the fingerprint sensors in Fujitsu laptops and tablet PCs.
The Fujitsu PalmSecure biometric device can be connected directly to the USB port of a notebook PC, or embedded into desktop PC keyboards. The new Fujitsu PalmSecure/OmniPass product offering will be available in the fourth quarter of 2006.