Authentication Streamlined for Blind and Visually Impaired via OneButtonPIN

Researchers at the University of Waterloo and Rochester Institute of Technology have created a novel authentication system to eliminate the drawbacks that come with the current biometric modalities, making it easier for blind and visually impaired individuals to be identified.

A new approach dubbed OneButtonPIN has been designed to provide an alternative to entering pin numbers. This solution is revolutionary in that it utilizes touch rather than visual methods of biometrics for authentication. Existing techniques require users with normal vision to type in passwords, draw patterns, or pose for face recognition. Now, they can simply count the haptic vibrations to enter the right pin.

Privacy attacks can target passwords and other authentication methods, but OneButtonPIN is an innovative sign-in solution that works by having a series of numbers associated with certain vibrations.

This strategy is not noticeable to outsiders and decreases the chances of those with sight impairment having to depend on audio support technology where they may be exposed to eavesdropping.

Watson commented that, although OneButtonPIN was designed with BLV people in mind, many users will be pleased with the extra security it provides. He also noted that when accessibility is improved, the average user stands to benefit from the increased usability.

A study found that OneButtonPIN achieved an accuracy rate of 83.6%.

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