P7 Fingerprinting

So far, this has been the only feature that hasn't impressed me. The laptop on a whole is great!!!The security of the fignerprint systems seems weak though...

1. Scanner is not integrated into BIOS, so can't use to boot machine up.

2. Software runs as application at startup. Can bypass fingerprint authentication window by click on Windows Logon and entering password.

3. Only captures small part of print, makes scanning from odd angles a pain.

I haven't been able to research any software upgrades to see if these issues have been addressed...probably tonights project. I also am looking for an ap to somehow disable the keyboard at startup so that you must authenticate via fingerprint.

 

Yeah, I have similar complaints. At first I really hated it, but now I'm getting more proficient at getting my thumb just right.

1st try - 50%
2nd try - 75%
3rd try - 85%

So I still have to log in by typing 15% of the time. This isn't about training the software, it's about training the user, LOL.

I've not been motivated enough to look into software updates, so let me know what you find.

Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com

 

You're scaring me freeman...heh

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Fujitsu S6210: 1.6Ghz PM ~ 768MB RAM ~ 60GB 7200RPM Hard Drive
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I think the fingie thing is very similar to the handheld scanner, which is a very painfull experience. But I do learn to be more patience from that technology. I do not sure whether this is the same or not, but I would suggest to try it and see if you have better result. the technique is to slide your finger slowly during the initial record of the fingerprint, and during logon. don't move your finger the way you move your mouse, it got to be slower than that, and this allow the software to detect your fingerprint more clearly and precise.
<blockquote id='quote'> quote:<hr height='1' noshade id='quote'>Originally posted by Brian

 

Or they can bypass the logon by cutting your finger instead, since the notebook fingerprint doesn't seem to use thermal detection. I'll say w/o putting you finger in a fridge or icebox, the thief can use that finger to logon for about a week before he/she has to change the password[} ]
<blockquote id='quote'> quote:<hr height='1' noshade id='quote'>Originally posted by Big Calhoun

 

LOL - me too. How many extra fingers does free have anyway?

Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com

 

well, that method isn't too far fetch from the truth, it shows on the the new movie like 007, and other movies. Also it's real in certian countries if you are not carefull. What make you think thievs have any concern of your safety or your life?

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Isn't there a substance that has the same conductivity as human skin and can be used to fool some biometric scanners? When searching for a fingerprint scanner for my v505, I had run across a article that mentioned it was possible to imprint a fingerprint into a mold made of a particular substance and use that to fool some fingerprint scanners.

As it stands now, I can't rely on the scanner on the P7 for absolute security (if there is such a thing). Just too easy to get around it. Do I wish I went with the scroll dial....no. Really isn't that important to me and I use an external mouse anyway.

In doing some research on Softex OmniPass, I've found that Softex can enable a BIOS to work with fingerprint scanner. However, it wasn't clear if this required some type of hardware modification or if it could be done through software. If it can be done via a software upgrade, that may make it worth it. Haven't come across alot of information on the OmniPass software or any upgrades/enhancements yet.

 

Just came back from vacation...California (Southern)...very bueatiful state!!!! Anyway, before I left for holiday I e-mailed Softex concerning the fingerprint scanner and software. First off, the represenatives at Softex are VERY responsive and professional. They responded to each e-mail with full and complete answers and in a professional manner. That was greatly appreciated. Now, the skinny:

1. The software and hardware are from two different sources. Softex Inc makes the software (OmniPass) and AuthenTen (sp?) makes the scanner.

2. The OmniPass software included on the P7 is crippled. It's the latest version (3.0), however, features have been removed at the request of Fujitsu. The full version does allow for encryption of files and various authentication rules. It is the options for these rules that can allow the Windows logon screen to be 'locked' so that a user must authenticate using the scanner. The full version also supports multiple methods of authentication such as USB keys, TMP chips, etc.

3. An BIOS upgrade is offered but only as a factory or OEM installed option. This would, presumbly, require authentication prior to the operating system loading. The only company offering it as a OEM feature, at this time, is Samsung.

4. There is an upgrade option available for previous users of the OmniPass software and it *DOES* apply to users of the P7010D. You can upgrade to the latest full version for $30. The software is provided via a one time FTP link and there is an additional charge to have it delivered on CD. A 30 day trial version is available on their website and I'll be checking that out to see if it's worth it.

So that was the skinny straight from Softex (Thanks Rick Hutchinson!!). Very informative and very professional. Once the jet lag wears off, I'll start playing with the full version and see how it goes.

 

Yeah, the hardware is from AuthenTec, they're one of the few players in the industry:

http://www.authentec.com/

Let me know how that software upgrade goes. I'm considering it.

Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com

 

[} ]and don't forget, the thief can still cut your finger and use it[} ] hehe[ ]
<blockquote id='quote'> quote:<hr height='1' noshade id='quote'>Originally posted by Brian