iPhone fingerprint sensor raises security concerns

Apple's Touch ID fingerprint scanner allows users to scan their fingerprint to access the iPhone and download media or apps from iTunes without the need to type in a PIN code. - See more at: http://www.alta.org/news/news.cfm?newsID=22535#sthash.1b3IuKCw.dpuf

pple's Touch ID fingerprint scanner allows users to scan their fingerprint to access the iPhone and download media or apps from iTunes without the need to type in a PIN code. - See more at: http://www.alta.org/news/news.cfm?newsID=22535#sthash.1b3IuKCw.dpuf

Apple's new iPhone 5S features a new fingerprint sensor to enhance security. The Touch ID fingerprint scanner allows users to scan their fingerprint to access the iPhone and download media or apps from iTunes without the need to type in a PIN code.

While the feature is supposed to improve security, questions have been raised about hackers' ability to "steal" a fingerprint. For ALTA members that may eventually use this feature, any non-public personal information could be at risk. ALTA’s “Title Insurance and Settlement Company Best Practices” provides guidance on protecting NPI.

Gregory McDonald of Cloudstar Consulting Corp. is concerned the fingerprint scanner will give iPhone users a false sense of security. - See more at: http://www.alta.org/news/news.cfm?newsID=22535#sthash.1b3IuKCw.dpuf

Gregory McDonald of Cloudstar Consulting Corp. shared some concerns with us and you can read about those here. The article also includes tips on smartphone security from ISON.

But can fingerprints really be "stolen?" Check out this cool video from MythBusters who prove you can.

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09/20/2013