Biometric Template Protection
Techniques like cancellable biometrics and encryption safeguard stored biometric templates from misuse or breach.
Overview
Template protection techniques reduce the risk that stolen biometric data can be reused or inverted, supporting privacy regulations.
How it works
- Transform or encrypt templates at enrollment.
- Perform matching in protected form (e.g., homomorphic encryption or secure enclaves).
- Allow template revocation and reissue when needed.
Common use cases
- Privacy-sensitive biometric databases
- Mobile devices with secure enclaves
- Research on secure multi-party matching
Strengths and limitations
Strengths: Limits impact of data breaches; supports revocation.
Limitations: Performance overhead; interoperability challenges.
Key terms
- Cancellable biometrics: Reversible transform of templates.
- Biometric cryptosystem: Uses cryptographic schemes to protect matching.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cancellable biometrics?
A method that transforms templates so they can be revoked and reissued if compromised.
How is matching done on protected data?
Approaches include secure enclaves for plaintext-in-TEE matching, helper-data schemes, or privacy-preserving computation (e.g., homomorphic encryption).
Can template protection stop inversion attacks?
Properly designed schemes reduce the risk and utility of reconstructions, but security depends on threat models and implementation.