View all newsletters
Receive our newsletter - data, insights and analysis delivered to you

Will electronic DNA become the safest way to login?

The technique enables logging in only after authenticating particular users’ identity.

By CBR Staff Writer

Researchers at the University of Oxford have explored the possibility of using individuals’ physical activities to securely login to PCs and smartphones.

Called electronically Defined Natural Attributes (eDNA), the string of physical behaviour may enable detection of when an individual has consumed drugs, had sex, or if they might be at risk of a heart attack within the three months’ duration.

Oxford BioChronometrics chief executive, Adrian Neal, was quoted by the Guardian as saying: "Electronic DNA allows us to see vastly more information about you.

"Like DNA it is almost impossible to fake, as it is very hard to go online and not be yourself.

"It is as huge a jump in the amount of information that could be gathered about an individual as the jump from fingerprints to DNA. It is that order of magnitude."

The eDNA would ultimately be used to enable an individual to login on any PC or mobile device, by authenticating their identity.

Content from our partners
Scan and deliver
GenAI cybersecurity: "A super-human analyst, with a brain the size of a planet."
Cloud, AI, and cyber security – highlights from DTX Manchester

Oxford BioChronometrics president David Scheckel said that eDNA would be able to spot whether a click on an advert or a site is from an automated programme, or so-called bot, or a real human.

"We can hold companies like Google and Facebook to account ,and they know this technology is coming," Scheckel added.

Websites in our network
Select and enter your corporate email address Tech Monitor's research, insight and analysis examines the frontiers of digital transformation to help tech leaders navigate the future. Our Changelog newsletter delivers our best work to your inbox every week.
  • CIO
  • CTO
  • CISO
  • CSO
  • CFO
  • CDO
  • CEO
  • Architect Founder
  • MD
  • Director
  • Manager
  • Other
Visit our privacy policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
THANK YOU