Apple is introducing a quick way to disable the fingerprint sensor on iOS 11 enabled devices. All users have to do is tap the power button five times, which brings up the option to turn off biometric authentication until a password is entered.
At the heart of this feature are increasing security concerns within the US. Apple has been fighting against law enforcement agencies who want it to unlock phones belonging to private citizens. It’s mostly a question of privacy, especially for those who would rather not have authorities snooping around their devices.
It’s also a matter for international travellers who would rather not have their devices unlocked at border checkpoints. Most fingerprint sensors can be fooled with a high resolution picture; of which border control agents will definitely have on file. After all, some airports will take the fingerprints of people entering the country.
We can also see this being useful for journalists operating in regions controlled by authoritarian regimes. Especially since the smartphone has become extremely important for keeping track of informants and taking notes.
It’s expected that this feature will also disable any future biometrics on the iPhone. Including the rumoured facial recognition software. iOS 11 is currently in the public beta stage, and anyone curious enough can give this feature a go. Just don’t forget your password.
[Source: The Verge]
