biometric data Archives

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google talks smarter security against fraud and theft in The Android Show

Google has announced updates to enhance security and privacy for Android users, including: - Enhanced scam protection for calls and text messages. - Updated Factory Reset protections limiting phone functionality if reset without owner consent. - Upgraded Live Threat Detection in Google Play Services to identify malicious applications. - Introduction of the Key Verifier feature for verifying identities in conversations using public encryption keys, launching this summer for Android 10 and higher. - Expansion of the Identity Check feature to more devices with the upcoming Android 16 release. - Concealment of one-time passwords on the lock screen in Android 16. - Extension of the Advanced Protection program to a broader audience. - Rollout of live threat detection capabilities in Google Play Protect for Pixel 6 and newer devices and other smartphones. - Announcement of Google I/O 2025 scheduled for May 20 at 10 am PT (1 pm ET).

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Microsoft Confirms Password Deletion For Windows Users—What You Do Now

Microsoft is transitioning away from passwords to enhance security, encouraging users to adopt passkeys. Passkeys are securely stored secrets on a user's device, unlocked through biometrics, PINs, or patterns, making them resistant to phishing and eliminating the need for complex passwords. Users can set up passkeys by signing into their Microsoft account's Advanced Security Options or Security Info, selecting a sign-in method, and following on-screen instructions. Once established, signing in is straightforward, requiring only the chosen authentication method. Microsoft is prioritizing passkeys for new accounts and refining its sign-in logic to improve efficiency, with passkeys being three times faster than traditional passwords. Passkeys can be used across devices and applications that support them, with Windows Hello facilitating authentication.

Winsage

March 22, 2025

How to disable the Windows Hello feature with Intune

Windows Hello allows users to authenticate in Windows using biometric data or a PIN, with enhanced features in Windows Hello for Business, including device authentication and integration with Conditional Access. It is recognized by NIST as a multifactor authentication (MFA) method, combining a device with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and a PIN or biometric data. However, the second factor is not portable, which may be a concern for some organizations. For those not using Windows Hello for Business, IT administrators can disable it through Microsoft Intune using two methods: by adjusting enrollment options or creating an account protection policy.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

How to Add Fingerprint Authentication to Your Windows 11 Computer

To set up fingerprint recognition on Windows 11, follow these steps: 1. Open the Windows 11 Settings app by pressing the Windows Key and typing “settings.” 2. Navigate to the Accounts menu from the sidebar. 3. Click on Sign-in options. 4. Select Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) and click “Set up.” Enter your PIN or create one if you haven't already, then follow the prompts to register your fingerprint. If your fingerprint fails to work, you can revert to your PIN. Troubleshooting steps include restarting your computer, resetting your fingerprint data, adding an alternative fingerprint, or updating the fingerprint sensor drivers. Windows 11 also allows the use of facial recognition as an alternative to fingerprint authentication through Windows Hello. Benefits of using fingerprint sign-in include faster login, enhanced security due to the difficulty of replicating biometric data, and facilitating a transition to passwordless authentication systems.

Winsage

November 23, 2024

Previewing Recall with Click to Do on Copilot+ PCs with Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723) has been released to the Dev Channel, introducing features like Recall (Preview) and Click to Do (Preview) for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. Users can join the Dev Channel by registering for the Windows Insider Program and selecting the Dev Channel in the settings. Recall allows users to search for previously interacted items on their PC using AI, requiring Windows Hello for authentication and enabling BitLocker and Secure Boot. Users can manage saved snapshots, delete unwanted ones, and ensure their data remains private. Recall detects sensitive information and does not save such snapshots. Click to Do integrates with Recall to enhance productivity by offering actions for recognized text and images within snapshots. This feature is also currently exclusive to Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. The update includes various improvements and fixes across Windows 11 PCs, such as enhancements to Windows Hello, Narrator, and speech functionalities. Known issues with Recall and Click to Do will be addressed in future updates.

Winsage

October 30, 2024

Having trouble with external Windows Hello hardware? Here’s what you need to do

Windows Hello utilizes biometric data for sign-in, requiring compatible hardware like USB fingerprint readers or infrared webcams for desktop users. Users may face detection issues with external devices if Enhanced sign-in security is enabled by default in Windows 11 version 24H2. To enable external devices, users must disable Enhanced sign-in security through the Settings app by navigating to Accounts, selecting Sign-in options, and toggling the relevant setting. After restarting, users can set up Windows Hello by choosing either facial or fingerprint recognition in the Settings app. Compatible devices include the Kensington VeriMark USB Fingerprint Key and the Logitech Brio 4K webcam, both supporting Windows Hello functionality.

Winsage

October 5, 2024

Why you should be using Windows Hello to secure your PC

Windows Hello is a biometric authentication system for Windows PCs that allows users to log in using facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, eliminating the need for traditional passwords. It stores biometric data locally on the device, enhancing security by preventing access to Microsoft accounts. The system relies on the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) hardware for managing authentication and encrypting data. Windows Hello uses infrared cameras for facial recognition to ensure it responds to live individuals. Users can choose between facial recognition and fingerprint scanning based on personal preference. Setting up Windows Hello can be done during initial sign-in or later through the Settings app. Users can enhance biometric recognition by adjusting settings for different lighting conditions or adding multiple fingerprints. To add Windows Hello to PCs lacking compatible hardware, users can invest in a Windows Hello-compatible webcam or USB fingerprint scanner.

AppWizard

September 20, 2024

Messenger Users Can Proceed With Biometric Privacy Claim Against Meta

A federal judge has refused to dismiss a class-action complaint against Meta Platforms, alleging unlawful collection of biometric data from Illinois residents using the Messenger and Messenger Kids apps. The ruling, by U.S. District Court Judge Nancy Rosenstengel, highlights concerns over data privacy and claims that Meta violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) by not obtaining proper consent for biometric data collection. Meta intends to defend its practices, asserting compliance with laws regarding data collection and privacy. The case could set a precedent for tech companies' handling of user data and may encourage stricter privacy legislation in other states.