Today, reports revealed that the Android fingerprint framework is exposed to several potential hacks, one of which can bypass fingerprint-authenticated payment systems. These hacks were tested and are found workable on certain Android devices. However, the series of vulnerabilities did affect the Apple’s Touch ID system.
The idea that a hacker could bypass this digital lock-and-key is quite a scary since fingerprint scanners are already being used to authenticate payments. But that’s not the worst of it. Demoed by researchers Tao Wei and Yulong Zhang, a fingerprint sensor spying attack could remotely steal actual fingerprint data, this has already been caught out to HTC One Max and Samsung Galaxy S5.
Touch ID, conversely, doesn’t divulge vital fingerprint info without a crypto key. So in the event that a hacker does get access to Touch ID, the crucial details remain on lock-down as they should be.
But there is a good news for the Android users, don’t feel helpless as the OEMs are aware of this security exploit, and most have them have already released fixes via OTA, so be sure to keep your phones updated with the latest software and it should be good.
In closing we would like to say, the severity of these hacks are real however with the updates from OEMs should you safe from the attacks. Samsung Pay’s launch is near now, with other similar services will soon join in, but keeping in mind all the vulnerabilities a great deal of resistance towards the acceptance of this technology would be seen.