Identification process for personal data card such as credit card - has fingerprint data held in card ROM that is compared with data obtained by reading of users fingerprint

摘要

The identification method providing improved access control for the use of such items as credit or bank cards (10) involves a fingerprint check. The card has a built-in ROM memory that contains data relating to the fingerprint of the user. When the card is inserted into the reader (3), the ROM data is read. In order that access can be given, the user presents his finger (6) to a fingerprint reader (2). The digitised fingerprint data is compared with the stored data. After a predetermined number of unsuccessful attempts the card ROM is automatically destroyed. USE/ADVANTAGE - Provides improved protection against illegal use.