3D face recognition, a solid defence against data theft

The topic of cybersecurity is more topical than ever. Events such as the pandemic or the global geopolitical situation mean that traditional crime has moved online. Victims can be individuals, but also companies, especially SMEs. To protect sensitive data, the Lausanne-based company OneVisage SA offers a digital authentication solution based on 3D facial biometrics.

In 2021, the Swiss were particularly affected by cyberattacks. More than 21,000 incidents have been reported to the National Centre for Cybersecurity (NCSC). That’s more than double the number in 2020. Companies are particularly targeted. Indeed, according to a study by Check Point, cyberattacks are increasing more in our country than in the rest of the world. Thus, the number of cyberattacks against corporate IT networks has increased by 65% in 2021 compared to 2020. For Christophe Remillet, CEO of OneVisage SA, this situation is not reassuring. “The value of data rules our digital world. Any data is inherently sensitive, and its compromise can seriously impact a company or individual and lead to bankruptcy or dismissal”.

3D to authenticate users
The Lausanne-based start-up develops authentication solutions to protect sensitive data, secure transactions, and prevent identity theft and phishing attacks. “The vast majority of cyber fraud stems from weak user authentication at endpoints such as smartphones, laptops, or kiosks. Current security devices, which rely on passwords, pin codes, or badges are insufficient. Authenticating a device is not authenticating a user”, explains Christophe Remillet.

So, how do you ensure strong authentication of data? The use of 3D facial biometrics could be the solution. OneVisage SA has developed a system that captures 3D images of a face using 3D cameras. The aim is to establish a very precise imprint of a face and then to transform it into a mathematical model. “3D facial biometrics results in very high levels of security with an accuracy that approaches 1 in 1 million, while 2D facial biometrics or mobile fingerprints are within the range of 1 in 100 errors”, the CEO estimates.

Towards a systematisation of the technology
The systems developed by OneVisage SA are intended for large software integrators, cybersecurity providers, and identity and access management (IAM) solution providers. To develop this cutting-edge technology, the start-up has benefited from the support of Innosuisse at various levels. OneVisage SA was the first start-up to receive the Innosuisse Certificate, which certifies that the start-up is ready for sustainable growth, and which helped it to refine its growth strategy.

Christophe Remillet is convinced of the potential of 3D facial biometrics and plans to apply it to a multitude of everyday situations. “We are working to provide a universal solution to protect people who access their bank account, start their car, check into a hotel or walk through a gate.”

All this without crossing any boundaries. Indeed, OneVisage SA makes data protection a principle, as its CEO explains: “We do not use a biometric database. Biometric fingerprints are stored directly on users’ devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, NFC badges or others. Therefore, we comply with the most stringent privacy and data protection regulations”.