As password leaks occur regularly, the tech giant Google is beginning to implement a new method for accessing user accounts—face recognition via video selfies.
This new capability was presented yesterday in the company's blog, where a video demonstrating its principle of operation was published. Google claims that this feature may be useful for users who have difficulty remembering their password.
In its blog, Google emphasized that a Google account contains a lot of valuable information, including important documents, emails, and favorite photos. The company always strives to ensure that this data remains confidential, protected, and easily accessible, which is why it recommends that users set up multiple sign-in methods.
To activate the selfie feature, users must go to the 'Security and Sign-in' section in their Google account settings. The option to add a video selfie will appear under the list of old sign-in methods, if such an option is available for that account. After that, the user will need to look into the device's camera and perform a series of short, guided head movements to capture facial images from different angles.
Google stated that it uses a multi-level protection system in addition to standard security measures to prevent attempts to impersonate another person. This system includes technologies designed to detect deepfakes in images and videos, highlighting the company's concern for user privacy and security.
Thus, Google joins other technology leaders like Apple and Microsoft by moving away from password-based logins, as these have proven vulnerable in cybersecurity. Users often chose weak passwords to make them easier to remember, which made them easy targets for hackers. Furthermore, new artificial intelligence models study human behavior patterns to guess passwords more accurately.
Facial and fingerprint biometrics are widely recognized as the most reliable and simple way to verify identity. Now, the next login might only require a smile at the camera, provided the user agrees that Google will store their image.
Google has introduced a new authentication method for accounts, allowing users to log in using a selfie video, which assists in situations of forgotten passwords or account lockouts.
To activate this functionality, the user must access the settings page and scan a QR Code with a mobile device. After reading the code, the Google app will open on the phone or tablet, and it may be necessary to log in again to the Google Account. Then, image capture begins, and the user receives instructions to move their face laterally during the process, similar to facial recognition used in banking applications.
According to Google, the captured video is stored securely in the user's account and can be removed at any time. This recording serves to compare images during the selfie video access process. When this method is triggered, multiple layers of security are activated to prevent third parties from accessing the Google Account using fake photos or videos, such as deepfakes.
Google added that it also employs its usual security practices to identify and prevent suspicious login attempts. Although this is a worldwide launch, it is being rolled out gradually, and users who do not yet have access to the feature must wait a few days.
