In recent years, the majority of Android phones have featured a fingerprint reader as an alternative to facial recognition systems (such as the iPhone’s Face ID), which require considerable hardware and are difficult to conceal.
Fingerprint readers provide a reliable and convenient way to unlock phones. However, fingerprints can change over time and potentially fade away. While this isn’t a widespread issue, it’s worth considering.
Fingerprints can fade away. There have been cases of individuals, like 33-year-old climber Mara Johnson, who completely lost her fingerprints. According to Wired, she even experienced difficulties renewing her national identity card because she couldn’t register her fingerprints.
Cases like Johnson’s are rare. However, for example, a 2013 study by Lebanon’s Ministry of Internal Affairs found that a small percentage of Lebanese people (0.18%, or 259 out of 145,660) were unable to register their fingerprints when applying for identity documents.
It’s fascinating to learn about the various reasons that can result in the erasure or alteration of our fingerprints, which are unique patterns of ridges and grooves on the skin of our fingertips, distinguishing each individual (even twins).
Causes. Our fingerprints can change for various reasons, including burns, amputations, malformations, wounds, dermatological issues like dermatitis, and even aging. Research has shown that chemotherapy can also impact fingerprints.
Moreover, engaging in sports with a significant impact on the fingers or having physically demanding jobs that involve intense hand usage can also lead to changes in our fingerprints over time.
There’s always a second chance. Users shouldn’t rely on biometrics as the sole means of unlocking their devices, considering that issues like these can arise. Fortunately, in case your phone fails to recognize your fingerprint, you can always use the pin you set to unlock your phone.
Similarly, the facial recognition system isn’t flawless: Facial changes such as new hairstyles, cosmetic procedures, wearing glasses, or any other alterations to your original facial features can also affect these systems.
Image | Xataka
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