Microsoft has unveiled a new facial recognition feature called Face Check, aimed at strengthening security and identity verification for corporate clients. The utility, which was released in preview in February, is now part of the Microsoft Entra Suite, a multifaceted digital identification solution. By comparing a user's selfie against an official photo ID, the technology intends to mitigate the vulnerabilities inherent in conventional verification techniques.
Addressing Cybersecurity Threats
Microsoft detailed in it announcement blog post that 65% of cyberattacks involve compromised sign-ins. The increasing capabilities of generative AI have rendered traditional identification systems more susceptible to advanced impersonation. Face Check is designed to address these issues by offering a secure verification process that prioritizes user privacy while effectively detecting spoofing strategies, such as deepfakes.
The process begins with a selfie, juxtaposed with a verified photograph from a credible document like a passport. Only the results of the match are shared, ensuring protection of sensitive identity information. The technology is proficient in identifying and rejecting various spoofing attempts, bolstering security.
Integration and Cost
Businesses can utilize Face Check as an independent service for $0.25 per verification. It is also accessible within the broader Microsoft Entra Suite. Microsoft provides a free trial of the Entra Suite, which includes eight Face Check verifications per month, to allow businesses to assess the service.
The addition of Face Check aligns with Microsoft's broader goal of improving security and verification processes for businesses. As traditional methods like CAPTCHA and security questions become less effective against sophisticated cyber threats, advanced facial recognition technology offers a more robust defense against identity fraud.
Based on open standards, Entra Verified ID allows organizations to verify various types of credentials via a straightforward API. Verified ID integrates with key verification partners, enabling identity checks across 192 countries. For example, Skype successfully reduced fraudulent Skype Phone Number registrations by 90% in Japan using Verified ID.
