Since face lock has become an authentication tool, reliability problems have arisen, especially when devices such as the OnePlus 6 have been unlocked by printed photos, and even the face recognition systems on the iPhone getting tricked. A recent test conducted by Forbes using 3D-printed model of an individual’s face has yet again proved that Android smartphones were the least secure, with some phones opening by simply showing a photograph of the owner.
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Security and privacy reporter of the Forbes Thomas Brewster tested a 3D printed model of his face to test face unlock on four popular Android flagship smartphones, the OnePlus 6, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, LG G7 ThinQ and the Samsung Galaxy S9. He made a set up facial recognition on each of the devices using his real face. Then he used the 3D model to successfully unlock the phones. Shockingly, in the test, all four phones were unlocked by the 3D model of the reporter.
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In the test, OnePlus’ popular flagship phone OnePlus 6 was the easiest phone to unlock and almost instantly to unlock after being shown the 3D model head in front of the camera sensor.
A representative from OnePlus added that face unlock has been created with convenience in mind, which is why it is not listed as an authentication measure for apps that facilitate transactions, further adding that the company recommends fingerprint, PIN or password for security.
Some phones, such as the LG G7 and Samsung S9, warned about the limitations of facial recognition.
“Face recognition is a secondary unlock method that results in your phone being less secure,” LG said.
At the same time, Samsung point out: “Your phone could be unlocked by someone or something that looks like you. If you use facial recognition only, this will be less secure than using a pattern, PIN or password.”
Only the iPhone X model was defended from attack, confirming Apple’s claim that their software is the most secure. This is probably because of Apple’s attempt to verify accuracy. This includes hiring a Hollywood studio to create a realistic human face mask.