Biometrics-as-a-Service: A Framework to Promote Innovative Biometric Recognition in the Cloud

TL;DR

This paper introduces a cloud-based Biometrics-as-a-Service framework that enables biometric authentication using smartphones, fosters innovation through developer-uploaded algorithms, and implements a case study with ocular recognition and developer environments.

Contribution

It presents a novel cloud framework for biometric recognition that supports algorithm upload, automatic selection, and micropayments, promoting innovation and ecosystem growth.

Findings

Implemented ocular recognition system accessible via mobile web

Developed a Linux environment for algorithm development and submission

Demonstrated effective biometric authentication in a cloud setting

Abstract

Biometric recognition, or simply biometrics, is the use of biological attributes such as face, fingerprints or iris in order to recognize an individual in an automated manner. A key application of biometrics is authentication; i.e., using said biological attributes to provide access by verifying the claimed identity of an individual. This paper presents a framework for Biometrics-as-a-Service (BaaS) that performs biometric matching operations in the cloud, while relying on simple and ubiquitous consumer devices such as smartphones. Further, the framework promotes innovation by providing interfaces for a plurality of software developers to upload their matching algorithms to the cloud. When a biometric authentication request is submitted, the system uses a criteria to automatically select an appropriate matching algorithm. Every time a particular algorithm is selected, the corresponding developer is rendered a micropayment. This creates an innovative and competitive ecosystem that benefits both software developers and the consumers. As a case study, we have implemented the following: (a) an ocular recognition system using a mobile web interface providing user access to a biometric authentication service, and (b) a Linux-based virtual machine environment used by software developers for algorithm development and submission.