The signature by facial recognition is an authentication method that confirms the user's identity through facial biometrics. The system captures the image of the face, compares it with the identity document and validates the signature in real time, making the process safe, fast and reliable.
It is an essential modern solution to prevent fraud and simplify document signing processes. But how exactly does facial recognition signature work, and how can it be used effectively?
In this article, we will answer these questions once and for all. Continue reading to the end to find out everything you need to know about this subject.
How facial recognition signature technology works
Facial recognition technology involves a sophisticated process that combines advanced algorithms with artificial intelligence techniques to capture, analyze and compare facial images.
This process usually includes several fundamental steps to ensure the accuracy and security of the authentication. We highlight them below.
Image capture
The first step in signing via facial recognition is capturing an image of the user's face, which can be done using a smartphone camera, webcam or other compatible device.
At this point, the system collects a high-quality image, considering factors such as lighting, angle and focus to ensure that the captured image is suitable for analysis.
Analysis of facial features
After capturing the image, the system uses algorithms to map specific points on the face, such as the distance between the eyes, the shape of the nose, the length of the chin and other facial features.
Each human face has distinct patterns, which are transformed into a digital “template”, allowing future comparison with other images.
This step is called “feature extraction”, and its purpose is to transform the image into a set of unique numerical data that represents the particularities of the person’s face.
Comparison with identity documents
To verify the authenticity of a facial recognition signature, the captured image is compared with an existing image, usually from an official identity document.
At this stage, the technology checks whether the facial features match those of the person appearing on the document, ensuring that the signature is being made by the same person who holds the document.
This process can be combined with additional verification techniques, such as motion analysis by asking the user to perform a brief action, such as blinking or moving their head.
Data validation and verification
After comparing the data with the identity document, the system validates the authenticity of the signature. The final verification involves checking multiple factors, such as the presence of digital manipulations in the image and the correspondence with records previously stored in databases.
It is at this stage that it is ensured that the system is capable of detecting attempts to fraud, such as the use of photographs, pre-recorded videos or masks.
Advantages of signing via facial recognition
Facial recognition signatures offer several benefits for companies and users, contributing to the security and efficiency of document authentication processes. Below, we will look at some of the main advantages.
Enhanced Security
Facial recognition technology offers a higher level of security compared to traditional verification methods such as manual signature or the use of passwords.
The nature biometric The use of facial recognition signatures makes the process more resistant to fraud, since a person's facial features are practically impossible to replicate.
The technology can identify attempts at manipulation or the use of artifices, such as fake photos or videos, providing an additional layer of protection.
Practicality and speed
Ease of use is another strong point of facial recognition signatures. The process can be completed in a matter of seconds, without the need to travel or send physical documents.
This aspect makes the technology ideal for companies looking to speed up the closing of contracts and bureaucratic processes, improving the user experience and optimizing time.
Reduction of operating costs
By digitizing the signature process, businesses can reduce the costs associated with printing, transporting and storing physical documents.
Facial recognition technology also reduces the need for manual verification, allowing resources to be directed to other important areas of the business.
How to make a signature by facial recognition
To implement facial recognition signatures, you need to follow a few steps that ensure the effectiveness and security of the process. In this topic, we will show you exactly how to proceed.
1. Choose a platform that offers facial recognition
The first step is to select a reliable platform that offers facial recognition signature functionality. Platforms like ZapSign offer robust solutions that integrate this technology into digital signature processes, enabling biometric verification in a safe and practical way.
2. Register on the platform
After choosing the platform, you must register, providing basic information such as name, email and identification documents. Some platforms may require you to send a selfie with the document to set up initial facial verification. This step is essential to ensure that the system can compare the images correctly.
3. Capture a picture of your face during the signing process
When a document is signed, the platform will ask to capture an image of the user's face. It is important that the user is in a well-lit environment and follows the instructions provided by the platform, such as keeping the face centered in the camera and avoiding the use of accessories that could interfere with the analysis, such as sunglasses or hats.
4. Confirm your identity with an identity document
The next step is to cross-check the captured image with a photo on an identity document. This process is fully automated and takes a matter of seconds. The system will analyze whether the facial features in the image match those in the photo on the document.
5. Validate the signature and complete the process
Once the identity has been confirmed, the facial recognition signature will be validated and the document will be digitally signed. Some platforms may issue a compliance report certifying that the signature was made using biometric technology.
⚠️ Also check out these related articles 👇
- What is biometrics, what is it for and what are the types?
- Facial recognition in marketing: understand how it works
- Discover ZapSign's liveness and sign documents with your selfie
Practical applications and benefited sectors
Facial recognition signatures have several applications in various sectors, which benefit from this technology to improve security and user experience. Check it out!
Financial sector
No financial sector, facial recognition signatures are widely used to verify the identity of customers when opening accounts, making transactions, and accessing online services. The technology helps prevent fraud and meet compliance regulations such as the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Act.
Health services
Na Health area, this technology can be used to sign medical consents and documents related to treatments – thus ensuring that only patients or legal representatives can sign important documents, reducing the risk of fraud.
Real Estate and Legal Contracts
No real estate industry, facial recognition signatures make it easier to close leases and property purchase agreements by allowing interested parties to sign digitally and securely. Similarly, law firms can use this technology to validate signatures on contracts and other legal documents.
Marketing
No marketing, facial recognition signatures can improve personalization and security in customer interactions. Companies that use loyalty programs and promotional campaigns can quickly authenticate users’ identities, preventing fraud in exclusive promotions.
The ability to validate the signing of terms and conditions in digital campaigns ensures that only the target audience has access to specific benefits, reinforcing security and customer experience.
Challenges and limitations of facial recognition signature
Although it has numerous advantages, facial recognition signature also faces some challenges that need to be considered.
Privacy and data protection
The collection and storage of biometric data requires compliance with data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Law (LGPD) in Brazil and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe.
Companies must ensure that data is used securely and transparently, with explicit consent from users.
Accessibility and accuracy
Some groups of people, such as the elderly or people with disabilities, may have difficulty using facial recognition technology due to physical limitations or lack of access to suitable devices.
Furthermore, the accuracy of the technology can be affected by variables such as lighting conditions, camera angle or even some facial features less distinct.
Risks of false positives or negatives
Despite technological advances, there is still the possibility of authentication errors, especially in less sophisticated systems. False positives occur when the technology incorrectly identifies a person as authentic, while false negatives occur when a legitimate person is not recognized by the system.
Facial recognition signatures are becoming increasingly popular as a modern and secure solution for authenticating documents in the digital landscape. Their ability to simplify processes, improve security and reduce operational costs makes them an attractive choice for companies across a range of sectors.
While there are challenges to overcome, the benefits of this technology outweigh the limitations, making it an essential tool for preventing fraud and improving the user experience.
If you are interested in adopting this innovative technology, check out ZapSign, a digital signature platform that offers robust and integrated solutions to facilitate the authentication and signing of documents with facial recognition. Click here to learn more!
CEO of Henshin Agency and digital marketing consultant, fascinated by content marketing and an admirer of Japanese culture.
