Access control points have changed as the scope of possibility has broadened in technology. Both physical access panels, such as ones used in schools, and digital access panels, like smartphones, have seen rapid change. We examine the changes in access panel technology we have already seen, and look at what could be to come.
Previous advancements
Keypads
Security has improved immeasurably from the age-old lock and key. The way we entered restricted areas has changed over time — and it all started with the famous keypad. Similar to what we now see on ATMs, these were used to access locked areas and would require an individual to type in a specific numerical code to enter. The passcode would usually be around four to six digits long. But was this a viable method to protect a business? At the time, it was a revolutionary idea — but as times progressed, anyone could obtain the code and enter even if they weren’t authorised to do so. This was classed as a non-intelligent reader.
Card Readers
Security measures changed once again with the introduction of card readers. Usually, a magnetic strip would be attached to the card which a staff member could then swipe through a narrow slot in order to gain access. However, such cards are now available with a bar code reader, a proximity reader, smart card readers, and biometric readers — tailoring each to specific business requirements.
IP Door Readers
IP readers came next, accessible via card or Bluetooth technology. Biometrics are now also common in IP readers — unlike card readers and keypads, IP readers can operate independently as they hold an internal memory and if the details you provide do not match what the IP reader has knowledge of, you will not gain access.
These changes occurred in under 50 years. With that in mind, what will the next stage of access control panels be?
Access control for smartphones
With different options of ‘lock-screen’, smartphones already offer different means to gain access to its internal features. The use of passcodes is still common amongst most devices and are similar to keypads in terms of security. Biometric access, through the use of the fingerprint, is something that is relatively new and has revolutionised the way we get into our phones. However, in 2017, the iPhone X was released which saw tech-mogul company, Apple, introduce facial recognition as the main route to gaining access using a 3D sensor that can recognise the phone owner’s facial features. We suspect that this will be implemented across more smartphone devices in order to compete for the title of being the most accessible and the easiest. However, convenience and simplicity whether facial recognition, fingerprint scanning Bluetooth, and even a short PIN code come at a price they simplify access not only for the authorised user, but also for a potential attacker. So when it comes to implementing an Access Control System always seek the advice of an experienced security integrator.
The next steps
It is likely that the next stage of access control panels will involve ‘eyeball recognition’ technology. As no two people are the same, DNA ensures that access is being granted to the right person. Even in extreme and unlikely circumstances, if someone was to obtain your eyeball, they would still be unable to gain access.
We are already witnessing previously-speculated technology from movies being brought into reality. But they were unaware of how secure they would actually be. In “Diamonds are Forever” in the James Bond franchise, 007 tries to gain access through a ‘copy’ of the fingerprint. Realistically, if this was to occur, there would be smudges on the fingerprint which would lead to alerts being made and a fail in gaining access.
In “Demolition Man”, a group of prisoners attempt to escape using an extracted eyeball. In reality, this would not get past any sort of IRIS scan, as there is a detection process which determines whether the person is alive or not and a dead person’s pupil would not be responding to any light that is around.
How do you think access control panels will evolve next? Will movies this year predict even greater possibilities? And the bigger question is: will they be brought to life? With the evolution of access control happening frequently, and becoming more intelligent, we are sure to see new additions soon.
The article was brought to you by 2020 Vision, providers of IP CCTV systems and access control panels.
Sources:
http://securecomminc.com/2014/06/19/the-evolution-of-access-control-systems/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keypad
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Card_reader
http://www.tech-faq.com/access-control.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_reader
https://www.isonas.com/news-education/the-evolution-of-access-control/
https://www.eyelock.com/index.php
http://www.digitus-biometrics.com/blog/biometric-security-in-movies/
