IDEX Biometrics : Why Adding Biometric Authentication to Metal Cards Will Further their Desirability

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Why Adding Biometric Authentication to Metal Cards Will Further their Desirability

In the second post of our series on Metal Cards, we discuss the benefits of adding biometric authentication to payment cards. Providers will be able to effectively eliminate fraudulent misuse and foster vital consumer trust in their product by doing so.

For payment providers looking to attract high-value customers with an eye for style, the metal payment card is an increasingly popular choice. Crafted in sleek, minimalist designs from durable metals such as titanium, metal payment cards could become the new high-status "must-have" accessory. However, with the risk of such cards also being targeted by criminals, it's essential that robust security measures are considered.

The Threats to Payment Card Use

Unfortunately, the figures show that payment card fraud is a serious issue, with the cost of such criminal activity reaching £261.7M in the UK for the first half of 2021 alone, according to UK Finance statistics [1] This extrapolates to over £500M for the year, assuming similar levels for 2H 2021. Of this 1H 2021 figure, £19.5M relates to contactless / card-present fraud. It is entirely reasonable to be concerned that these new, highly coveted metal cards will be a prime target for criminals hoping to misuse them. After all, a metal card could be an indicator that the holder has a high credit limit, and contactless payment technology would allow fraudsters to use them unchallenged for numerous transactions.

Biometric Authentication Can Solve This Problem

Now, there is already a proven technology available which can make these new metal contactless payment cards secure. By including biometric authentication in the cards, the card providers can reduce fraudulent misuse, and foster vital consumer trust in their product in the process.

This authentication in the form of a fingerprint sensor, is built into the payment card and encrypted to only match the unique fingerprint of the authorized card user. Bringing convenience and peace of mind to the cardholder, the sensor is also cost effective for the card providers, making this an attractive solution. Indeed, using a fingerprint as a means of authentication is already familiar to many consumers, who already use this technology to secure their smartphones and tablets.

Further Benefits

It isn't just the security benefits that can make opting for integrated biometric sensors a smart business decision for card providers. With this technology, providers can unlock the potential to provide a myriad other useful services in each card, ranging from payments and travel passes through to loyalty schemes and even providing a form of ID.

This ability to make the payment card into a versatile, one-stop tool for daily life can be an excellent way of building valuable brand loyalty, and establishing long term financial relationships with consumers, especially those of the younger demographic who are especially likely to be attracted to a "tap and go" card that works in many different situations. Indeed, the convenience afforded by biometric authentication methods means that transactions can be sped up, with no need to use a PIN, and removing the limits for contactless payments.

A Desirable Solution For All

It's clear that not only can fingerprint authentication technology provide the stringent security measures needed for metal payment cards, but it can also be used as a key factor in attracting affluent customers. With so many benefits to be enjoyed, from increased speed and convenience to loyalty schemes, card providers will surely look to integrate this technology in their product in order to deliver the best possible customer experience.

Metal card providers are targeting the contested younger demographic space. According to a Federal Trade Commission Report [2], Millennials are 25% more likely to report incidents of fraud than older cohorts in the 40+ demographic. Whether this is through lifestyle choices or simply greater economic activity across a more diverse range of merchants, the statistics certainly suggest an elevated vulnerability in a key target group that adds further weight to the argument to add secure biometric authentication.

In the next blog post, we will discuss how challenger banks are attracting a younger audience.

[1] https://www.ukfinance.org.uk/system/files/Half-year-fraud-update-2021-FINAL.pdf

[2] https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/blogs/data-spotlight/2019/10/not-what-you-think-millennials-fraud