Biometric technology gives security clearance in a heartbeat

B-Secur, whose biometric technology uses an individual’s electrocardiogram (ECG) to quickly and securely authenticate identity, has raised £3.5m comprising £1.5m from Accelerated Digital Ventures, £750,000 from the Bank of Ireland Kernel Capital Growth Fund (NI), and the remainder from private investors.

“The unique features of using a heartbeat to authenticate individuals is that not only can you identify the user but you can also tell a number of wellbeing metrics about the user such as whether they are tired, stressed or even under the influence of drunk or drugs,” said Simon Rea, COO of B-Secur.

He added via email that the ECG signal can be captured using a number of different conductive materials such as metals, fabrics, or inks and also from a number of different locations on the body including wrists, fingers, or chest.

“As long as our algorithms pick up a strong signal they can work across a number of different use-cases and devices,” he said. “This ultimately allows this type of technology to be applied across a number of technology devices as there is no need for a specific sensor or capture point.”