REMOTE IDENTITY VERIFICATION TECHNIQUE USING A PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION DEVICE

Apparatus, and a method for its use, for automatically verifying the identity of a person seeking access to a protected property that is remotely located with respect to the apparatus, such as a remotely located computer file or building alarm system. The apparatus, which is disclosed in the form of a handheld device (14) or other portable device (14'), includes a sensor (16) for reading biometric data, such as a fingerprint image, from the person, and a correlator (28) for comparing the sensed data with a previously stored reference image (32) and for determining whether there is a match. If there is a match, the device (14) initiates an exchange of signals over a communication network, with the "door" (10) that protects the property. Specifically, the device (14) generates a numerical value, such as a cyclic redundancy code, from the stored reference image (32), encrypts the numerical value, and transmits it to the door (10) as confirmation of the person's identity. For further security, the person registers this numerical value at each door (10) to which access is desired. Upon receipt of identity confirmation from the device (14), the door (10) compares the received numerical value with the one stored during registration, before granting access to the protected property.