Models have security flaws and could put user data at risk. Find out what they are.
Most smartphones today feature unlocking via facial recognition, which would technically be more secure, as the owner of the device needs to be present for the phone to be unlocked.
Facial recognition is done through a system that uses the device's camera and algorithms to map patterns on faces. With this, the cell phone performs an in-depth scan of the face and stores information about the shape of the nose, position of the eyes and other characteristics. Then, when looking at the camera, the device recognizes the scanned pattern, unlocking the screen.
Although it may seem quite safe, if you use facial recognition to unlock your phone screen, you should start rethinking this action. A recent study revealed flaws in the facial recognition of more than 20 models of devices from the most popular brands, such as Xiaomi, Samsung and Motorola.
Check now the list of models that presented the faults and find out how to protect your device.
Facial recognition
The technology behind unlocking through facial recognition has evolved over time. In the past, recognition worked in a more “superficial” way and it was possible to unlock the screen using a photo of the person. However, over the years, technology has advanced and, in fact, recognition has become more secure, as some models have started to create a database that better stores facial features, making it possible to unlock with just a real face, and no longer with photos.
Facial recognition for unlocking the screen also adapts to the user's needs. If the user wears glasses, it is possible to configure the device to recognize this use. In addition, the system is also capable of recognizing facial aging as the years go by.
Although many people use and trust the system, a survey conducted by Consumenten Bond, a Dutch organization, confirmed that smartphones are insecure and, therefore, it is possible to bypass the facial unlocking system with user photos. In other words, anyone with a photo of you can access your phone.
Most of the vulnerable models are the most affordable cell phones, while the more expensive models generally have more secure systems. In total, 60 cell phone models were evaluated, and Xiaomi brand stood out negatively, as it appears with 14 devices on the list of rejected devices.
In the survey, only one cell phone Samsung brand was considered unsafe, the Galaxy A04s. The cell phones from Apple are considered the most reliable, showing that the company has invested in cutting-edge facial recognition technology.
Devices considered unsafe
Of the 60 smartphones tested, these 26 are considered the most insecure:
– Honor 70 5G
– Motorola E 13
– Motorola Moto G13
– Motorola Moto G23
– Motorola Moto G72
– Nokia G22
– Nokia G60 5G
– Nokia X30 5G
– OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
– OPPO A17
– OPPO A57
– Samsung Galaxy A04s
– Xiaomi 12 Lite
– Xiaomi 12T
– Xiaomi 12T Pro
– Xiaomi 13
– Xiaomi 13 Lite
– Xiaomi 13 Pro
– Xiaomi POCO M5
– Xiaomi POCO M5s
– Xiaomi POCO X5 5G
– Xiaomi POCO X5 Pro 5G
– Xiaomi Redmi 12C
– Xiaomi Note 12
– Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 5G
– Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G
How to protect the device
If your phone is on the list of models with faults, it is a good idea to adopt some ways to protect your data. One option is to disable facial recognition and use complex passwords or unlock using your fingerprint.
It is also important to use some layers of protection, preventing unauthorized access to your device. Therefore, even if you use facial recognition, it is recommended to also include another protection tool for your data. This way, your data will be more secure.
