Ask HN: Is Fingerprint Authentication in phones a good idea?

1 points by am185 11y ago ↗ HN

Why is Fingerprint Authentication a good idea? I never understood why?

What if a Fingerprint Phisher app acquired a young adult's fingerprint when he/she was young and stupid? How can that young adult change his/her fingerprint so it cannot be used once he/she grow up to be a rich professional?

I never I understood what is good news in this.

http://mashable.com/2015/05/22/android-m-fingerprint-authentication/

1 comment

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forkinyoureye 11y ago ↗

As a sole form of authentication, no, absolutely no. Fingerprints have a lot of disadvantages, even relative to other biometrics. Extremely easy to steal/spoof, not actually unique, and impossible to revoke on account compromise.

You can make the argument that they're mildly useful in 2 (or more) factor auth-- probability that someone has both obtained your password AND lifted your prints is somewhat less likely than either alone.