Type on the keyboard it is a necessary gesture to work with a computer. But it is also a system for transmit valuable information about the way we write. And consequently about who we are.
In this sense there is a branch of biometric recognition designed specifically for to monitor the way where users type on the keyboard: starting from speed and the rhythm with which they write. Until we get to the errors they commit and the type of parole that they prefer.
On the one hand, the biometric recognition of the keyboard guarantees a level of IT security unpublished. Especially in the case of systems that do not provide thetwo-factor authentication. On the other hand it allows a control of web activities which would seriously jeopardize the privacy online of millions of people.
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1. How biometric keyboard recognition works
Typing on the keyboard is a mechanical action for the vast majority of users. And almost no one really questions it the way he types.
However, each of us is used to typing on the keyboard in one entirely personal way. There are those who prefer the use of two, or at most three fingers on each hand. Just as there are those who are capable of typing perfectly.
But not only. The differences in typing also have to do with the speed and the rhythm: from the time taken for write a certain term to what usually passes between the typing of one word and another.
Another absolutely personal element is linked to errors. In fact, many users develop a kind of idiosyncrasy towards specific words. With the result that they often type them incorrectly, almost always making the same type of mistake: for example by reversing certain characters. Or inserting doubles where they are not foreseen.
All of the above elements and many more contribute to creating a kind of user identity according to his way of type on the keyboard.
Well, this kind of information can come analyzed and somehow measured: that’s why we talk about biometric recognition applied to the keyboard. Or alternatively of Biometry of pressing the keys.
Biometric keystroke recognition takes advantage of advanced algorithmswhich review the different ones characteristic aspects of the individual user.
Therefore biometric recognition studies typing on the keyboard taking into account multiple factors: the rhythm and the speed of typing, and the time of pressure maintenance on a single key. But also the so-called flight time: the aforementioned interval that passes between the pressing of one key and that of the next.
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2. Applications of biometric keyboard recognition
Il biometric recognition of the keyboard is already used in various security areas. Especially where the use of a password is not considered sufficient.
Some companies allow you to boost upthe insertion from the password taking into account the biometry of the keys. This means that the user does not only have to enter a correct sequence of alphanumeric characters. It must also always type it the same way.
The same goes for editing shared sensitive documents. This way it is possible identify a user who manages to log in, but then doesn’t writes according to the criteria analyzed during previous sessions.
From this point of view, biometric keyboard recognition seems like an excellent solution IT security. But unfortunately there are others too more controversial aspects.
The same technology could also be used for track users without their knowledge. Effectively adding to other systems already in use: for example the tracking of cookies or fromIP address.
In this sense, biometric keyboard recognition could go beyond all systems privacy protection currently known. For example the use of VPNbut also the choice of a darknet network through browserTor.
Adopt the biometric recognition of the keyboard for tracking purposes would make it possible to achieve promotional content even more targeted. But it could also lead to levels of web surveillance never seen before.
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3. Monitor what is typed on the keyboard
The considerations on the biometric recognition of the keyboard made up to now were limited to form and to writing style. But this kind of technology allows you to take control to the next level.
The algorithms monitoring could very well learn to recognize “what” users write. Typing on the keyboard means favoring some parole at the expense of others. Choose certain shapes of syntaxarticulate your thoughts in a specific and personal way.
The algorithms used for biometric keyboard recognition could be used for recognize own the user’s writing style. Drawing valuable information about his personality and her tastes.
Also in this case the applications of this technology seem controversial to say the least. On the one hand it is reassuring to think that software will be able to attribute authorship of a document or a written communication.
On the other hand, in the not too distant future, the artificial intelligences they could learn to replicate the writing style of each of us. At the risk of bringing the concept of deep fake to a level never considered before.
Fortunately, however, some tools already exist today protect yourself from profiling by biometric recognition of the keyboard. For example Keyboard Privacy– A Google Chrome browser extension that randomizes the recording of keystrokes.
Furthermore, nothing prevents thegenerative artificial intelligence be trained to writing “anonymous” documents: or typed in such a way that no patterns are highlighted of any kind.
To know more: Computer security: guide to safe browsing on the web
