Researchers at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) are exploring the use of cognitive fingerprints as a means to enhance password authentication.

Cognitive fingerprints are an aspect of covert-conditioned biometrics, which uses a unique sequences of problem-solving actions to determine if a user is legitimate or a poser. It does so by leveraging aspects of adaptive learning, behavior modification and game theory.

The system will deploy covert games that users will unknowingly develop strategies for. The system will then be able to understand a user’s particular anomalies and detect when an imposter is trying to thwart them.

SwRI has partnered with Sentier Strategic Resources LLC to gain expertise in cognitive psychology and human-subjects testing. The four-phase project will last nine months and is sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).