Windows 10 facial recognition feature vulnerable, can be bypassed using a photo

Earlier this month, Redmond technology giant Microsoft released astringent of updates that carried patches to an enormous vulnerability existing in the Windows 10 operating system. The problem lived in the ‘Hello’ facial recognition system, as it allowed potential hackers to bypass it through the use of a printed picture.

According to a report by Bleeping Computer, the Windows Hello feature was introduced with the launch of Windows 10 operating system. The function – which was based on a facial recognition software – made use of near-infrared (IR) imaging to authenticate and further unlock Windows devices. This feature was present in all products that ran on Windows 10 – including desktops, tablets and laptops. The highlight was supported by compatible cameras based on the near-IR sensor. Since the feature is not present in the majority of the devices, the problem is not widespread. That does not necessarily overlook the fact that the function is highly vulnerable. The fact that one can unlock the device through the use of a picture is a shocking deed as the product belongs to a company as massive as Microsoft.

This vulnerability was discovered by German pen-testing company, SySS GmbH. According to the information provided by them, Windows Hello is highly vulnerable when it comes to security. It is among the simplest and the most common type of attacks carried out by most hackers, and Windows Hello is subject to it. Microsoft hasn’t commented on the matter as yet. The Redmond giant only recently released the updates to Windows 10. However, it did not fix the problem. Users are waiting for an update that can strengthen the security of the facial recognition software by Microsoft. It remains to be seen what exactly will take place next.