Fingerprints’ biometric module for payments passes security requirements from Mastercard

By Joy Dumasia

Fingerprint Cards AB’s second-generation T-Shape sensor module and software platform for biometric payment cards have achieved compliance with Mastercard’s new Fingerprint Sensor Evaluation Process. Having passed the former specifications last year, Fingerprints has proactively secured this updated approval to simplify the process for card manufacturers to launch the second generation biometric payment cards. 

This development will minimise the time to market, lower related costs and is an essential milestone for deploying biometric payment cards at scale, supporting greater convenience and security for consumers making in-store purchases. 

The test was performed according to Mastercard’s stricter anti-spoofing capabilities for biometric payment cards issued last year. The Fingerprint Test Assessment Summary (FTAS) for sensor vendors confirms the performance of features that enhance the security, privacy, and user experience for cardholders. 

Michel Roig, President of Fingerprint Cards Switzerland AG Payment & Access, said: “Yet again, we are pushing technology boundaries by increasing the security features of our solution. This is an important achievement for our card partners, who can save time and money when launching and scaling second-generation biometric cards. And ultimately for consumers, who will be able to enjoy a convenient and secure in-store payment experience.”

The second-generation T-Shape technology combines extensive R&D investment with key learnings from successful market pilots and commercial rollouts. It delivers increased performance and power efficiency, enabling the most cost-effective biometric payment cards to be produced and integrated using standard manufacturing processes. 

IBS Intelligence reported that Banque Saudi Fransi (BSF) and Mastercard have partnered to launch the region’s first customisable cashback credit card that provides cardholders with the opportunity to select the cashback features to complement their lifestyle and preferences.