Authentication Using Tactile Feedback

Abstract

As current knowledge-based systems do not take into account human limitations when recalling authenticating strings, individuals often select short or guessable passwords. As a result, a compromise is created between memorability and security. To address these issues, a novel approach has been developed examining the use of recognition-based authentication, through the use of the haptic modality. The Tactile Authentication System (patent pending) allows the user to authenticate entry through the ability to recognize previously perceived tactile sensations. This method of authentication presents benefits over alternative visual-based systems. Stimuli are perceived underneath the fingertips, protecting the user from the threat of observers recreating the authentication sequence. As the sense of touch is personal to each individual, tactile sensations are difficult to describe in concrete terms, so cannot be easily shared with others. This paper reports the design of the Tactile Authentication System (TAS), and presents results from a one-month trial. Participants were able to recognise their pre-selected tactile stimuli from a wider range of sensations, and could form their personal sequences to authenticate entry to the system. TAS has been shown to present a memorable and usable alternative to conventional knowledge-based authentication systems.