Storing biometric data on mobile terminals involves stringent security requirements due to the sensitive and immutable nature of such data (e.g., fingerprints, facial scans). The primary goals are to prevent unauthorized access, ensure data integrity, and protect user privacy. Below are key security requirements with explanations and examples:
Biometric data must be encrypted both when stored locally (at rest) and when transmitted (in transit). Use strong encryption algorithms like AES-256 for storage and TLS 1.3 for data in motion.
Example: A mobile banking app stores fingerprint templates encrypted with AES-256 in the device's secure enclave and transmits them to the server over a TLS-secured channel.
Leverage hardware-based secure storage solutions, such as Trusted Execution Environments (TEE) or Secure Enclaves (e.g., Apple’s Secure Enclave, Android’s Keystore), to isolate biometric data from the main OS.
Example: Facial recognition data is stored in Android’s Keystore, which prevents direct access even if the device is rooted.
Avoid storing raw biometric images (e.g., raw fingerprint scans). Instead, store only mathematical representations (templates) derived from the biometric data, which are irreversible.
Example: A smartphone stores a 4KB fingerprint template instead of the original high-resolution fingerprint image.
Implement strict access controls, ensuring only authorized apps or system processes can access biometric data. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive operations.
Example: A payment app requires both a fingerprint scan and a PIN to authorize transactions.
Use cryptographic hashing or digital signatures to ensure biometric data hasn’t been altered. Regularly verify the integrity of stored data.
Example: A health app signs biometric templates with a private key and verifies the signature before use.
Adhere to data protection laws like GDPR, CCPA, or local biometric privacy acts (e.g., Illinois’ BIPA). Obtain explicit user consent and provide transparency about data usage.
Example: A mobile app discloses in its privacy policy how biometric data is used and allows users to opt out.
Enable remote data deletion or revocation capabilities in case the device is lost or stolen.
Example: If a smartphone is reported lost, the biometric data stored on it can be remotely wiped via a mobile device management (MDM) solution.
Conduct periodic vulnerability assessments and apply patches to address emerging threats.
Example: A mobile OS vendor releases a security update to fix a flaw in the biometric authentication module.
For enhanced security, consider using Tencent Cloud’s Mobile Security Solutions, such as Mobile Application Protection (MAP), which provides encryption, anti-tampering, and secure storage features tailored for mobile biometric data. Additionally, Tencent Cloud Key Management Service (KMS) helps manage encryption keys securely for biometric data storage.