According to a consumer survey conducted by AuthenTec (News - Alert), a provider of fingerprint sensor and solutions, U.S consumers are finding security and convenience in fingerprint authentication.

 

With the increasing use of online banking, E-commerce and the need for PC security, biometric technology that offers security to consumers has heightened the trust in fingerprint authentication.

According to the surveys findings, 77 percent of respondents said they are ready to begin using fingerprint sensors as part of their part of their day-to-day activities.

This majority response makes room for strong growth potential for broad consumer adoption.

While 68 percent responded that fingerprint sensors were more convenient and 66 percent said they trust fingerprint biometrics over traditional PINs or passwords, the survey also found that a majority of respondents (67 percent) had little or no knowledge of mainstream consumer electronic devices with a fingerprint sensor.

Respondents also said they believed that less than one million fingerprint sensors are in use today. But AuthenTec notes that it celebrated the shipment of its 25 millionth fingerprint sensor to the global marketplace in November, 2007.

“The survey reveals the chasm between strong end-user acceptance for fingerprint sensor-enabled devices and yet the low level of awareness of the widespread availability of products that feature our fingerprint sensors,” said AuthenTec Chairman & CEO Scott Moody in a statement to the press.

“This feedback is a reminder to the industry and consumer electronics manufacturers that there is a receptive buyer eager to enjoy the convenient security of fingerprint sensors.” 

 Stefania Viscusi is an established writer and avid reader. To see more of her articles, please visit Stefania Viscusi’s columnist page