Axis Bank introduces iris authentication for Aadhaar-based transactions

In an effort to boost its financial inclusion efforts, India’s Axis Bank has introduced an iris authentication feature for Aadhaar-based transactions through its micro ATM tablets.

Micro ATMs enables consumers to access banking services using only their Aadhaar numbers and biometrics. Axis Bank has deployed iris-powered micro ATM tablets which are STQC certified and UIDAI compliant registered devices with completely integrated iris sensors.

“We are delighted to introduce the iris authentication feature for Aadhaar-based transactions,” commented Rajiv Anand, Executive Director, Retail Banking at Axis Bank. “We have built this feature in a way that improves transaction experience over micro ATMs by making the Aadhaar authentication process hassle free and simple for our customers, especially senior citizens and those from far flung rural regions who often face rejections while using other biometric modes.”

To complete a transaction the customer needs to select the desired service – such as funds transfer or cash withdrawal – and enter their Aadhaar numbers in the micro ATM. They then have to choose ‘IRIS’ as the desired mode of authentication and verification will be done by scanning the eyes of the customers through the tablet’s iris sensor camera in 3 to 5 seconds. The transaction is completed once the biometric details are verified from the UIDAI database.

Axis Bank is presently running a pilot program for its customers at 8 branches in rural areas. It is also exploring the application of iris-based Aadhaar authentication for services such as loan processing, insurance, eKYC account opening and others.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) recently opened up Aadhaar auditing to allow banks and telecommunications providers to use any information security auditor certified by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team.

Article Topics

Aadhaar  |  banking  |  biometrics  |  identity verification  |  India  |  iris recognition