MultiLock: Biometric-based graded authentication for mobile devices

While traditionally smartphones have relied on methods such as a passcode or pattern-based authentication, biometric authentication techniques are gaining popularity. However current biometric methods are heavily dependent on various environmental factors. For example, face authentication methods depend on lighting conditions, camera shake and picture framing, while fingerprint scanning relies on finger placement. All of these variables can result in these systems becoming time-consuming for the user to use. To remedy these problems, we propose MultiLock, a passive, graded authentication system, which uses face authentication as a case study to propose a system that gives users access to their devices without requiring them to manually interact with the lock screen. MultiLock allows a user to categorize applications into various security bins based on their sensitivity. By doing so MultiLock can grant users access to different sensitivity applications, based on varying degrees of sureness that the device is being used by its rightful owner. Thus, allowing the device to be used even in adverse lighting conditions without hampering user experience. In our tests, MultiLock was able to grant access to users for 88% of the interactions on average, while passively running in the background. While we use face authentication as an example to demonstrate and propose MultiLock, our system can be used with any confidence based biometric system.