In a new "Brainprint" study researchers have discovered that a computer can use artificial intelligence to identify users based on their reactions to certain words, as an alternative to account passwords. Unlike fingerprints and retinal scans, a brain print can be "reset" after being hacked.
The research was conducted by New York's Binghamton University. It was published in the science journal Neurocomputing.
Scientists observed 45 volunteers' brain signals as they read off a list of 75 acronyms, including "DVD" and "FBI," according to Tech Crunch. They recorded the brain reactions to the different groups of letters.
Researchers focused on the brain area in charge of reading and recognizing words, by placing only three electrodes on the scalps of the study volunteers. They discovered that a significant difference existed between each participant's cognitive reaction to each acronym.
The difference was big enough that the computer system achieved 94 percent accuracy in its identification of study participants. Scientists believe that a security system could scan brainwaves to verify a user's identify.
This system would be a wise choice to replace account passwords. Although experts suggest choosing a complex string of letters, number, and symbols, such secure passwords can be easy to forget. Also, interestingly the most common passwords are still "12345" and "password," according to GizMag.
The accuracy rate of brainprints can be improved. However, while they are as unique as fingerprints, the former has a key benefit.
Sarah Laszlo is an assistant professor in the project. She explained that when fingerprint identification data is stolen it is non-cancellable, but a brainprint's authorized user could "reset" a stolen brain print.
This new tech likely will not be available soon. However, a brain password is certainly a practical solution for the problem of personal data such as account passwords being hacked.