User authentication using human cognitive abilities

Abstract

We present a novel approach to user authentication in which biometric data related to human cognitive processes, in particular visual search, working memory and priming effect on automatic processing, are captured and used to identify users. Our proposed system uses a carefully designed Cognitive Task (CT) that is presented to the user as a game, in order to capture a “cognitive signature” of the user. Our empirical results support the hypothesis that the captured cognitive signatures can identify users across different platforms. Our system provides a proof-ofconcept for cognitive-based biometric authentication. We validate the robustness of our system against impersonation attack by experienced users, and show that it is hard to reproduce the cognitive signature by mimicking users’ gameplay.