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Friday > Archives
> 2000
> September
> September 1, 2000:
Hour Two: Digital Identity Last week, a fake press release sent out over the Internet sent the stock of Emulex Corp, a maker of computer network equipment, on a wild ride. After several news outlets ran stories based on the fraudulent release, Emulex stock lost 50% of its value before rebounding later after the hoax was uncovered. The incident highlights the often anonymous nature of the digital world, where, in the words of a now-famous cartoon, "nobody knows you're a dog."
Many digital signatures rely on using encryption software, such as
PGP, to validate the authenticity of a message. Companies such as Verisign
have based their businesses around verifying authenticity in the online
world. Other companies are looking into the use of biometrics for identification
purposes -- retinal scans, fingerprints, facial recognition, voice analysis,
and recognition of patterns in typing rhythm, for verifying online identities.
On this hour of Science Friday, we'll look at some of these methods,
and at the larger problem of identity in the digital world. Call in
-- no matter who you are -- 1-800-989-8255.
Guests: John Daugman Books/Articles Discussed:
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