University of Southampton researcher Sara Alotaibi has developed FingerID, a system that allows the identities of owners of Web accounts to be verified with fingerprints rather than user names and passwords.
Users provide their fingerprints for FingerID during a one-time registration process.
After they register, users will be able to use their fingerprints to gain access to various online accounts.
Alotaibi plans to expand the system to authenticate users with palm prints and facial expressions.
The FingerID system's two main constituent elements are the Web site and software.
"We propose a cost-effective, convenient, and secure authentication solution for undertaking secure dealings over the Internet," Alotaibi says.
"It will allow Internet users to authenticate their identity in a hassle-free manner and go about their activities in a secure environment without the fear of loss of identity and money."