News

Partners develop PIN-free ATM with authentication via facial ID, blockchain

February 28, 2019

Alhamrani Universal, the largest ATM provider in Saudi Arabia, has announced a partnership with ShoCard, a blockchain-based identity authentication platform, to develop a biometric ATM prototype that will enable consumers in the region to use their blockchain-based app and face instead of a PIN to withdraw cash.

According to a press release, the technology is currently undergoing testing and is likely to be rolled out in production soon.

ShoCard uses blockchain technology to identify users across banks, hardware or online services where no device or service is trusted, and allows users and enterprises to establish their identities with one another in a secure and verified way. 

The ShoCard ATM solution introduces biometrics as part of a five-factor authentication process that includes ShoCard ID, a QR Code, timestamps, session IDs and other certifications methods — such as selfie ID — by which the user is verified. 

"The ShoCard solution will solve the issue of card fraud at ATMs that continues to plague banks and consumers," ShoCard founder and CEO Armin Ebrahimi said in the release. "It fits nicely into existing ATM technology, which usually already has a camera installed, and makes the customer experience as seamless as possible. At the same time, it utilizes blockchain technology to protect individuals' identity while confirming the information that banks need to verify that a withdrawal is legitimate."

As banks adopt biometric technology at ATMs across the region, AU ATMs will be able to verify customers, regardless of their bank, through the combination of blockchain and biometrics together.

"We're delighted to be working with ShoCard to develop a blockchain-based biometric ATM that will play a major role in helping to reduce fraud for consumers," AU CEO Tariq Abdat said. "Digital transformation is a key pillar of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, and collaborating with trusted technology partners such as ShoCard allows us to offer solutions that meet ever-growing demands for innovation."

The release said that ShoCard is already working with major international banks and other financial institutions to build a blockchain-based financial ID using the ShoCard Identity Management Platform.