Tech CU Offering Members a Biometric Option

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Biometric technology has been slow to catch on in credit unions, but things seem to be speeding up. The latest example is at the $1 billion Tech Credit Union in San Jose where members can use biometric PIN pads to positively identify themselves to perform in-branch transactions. The pads scan a member’s thumb or finger to make the ID. The credit union didn’t want to mandate biometric use by members, so the pads also include a PIN for those members who prefer to swipe their card and enter their PIN. “Because no two people have the same biological makeup, this system, in tandem with other data, more solidly ensures member safety, ” said Michael Luckin, VP of Delivery Systems for Tech CU. The biometric PIN pads cost about $200 per unit. The credit union launched them a few months ago and said already they have helped apprehend a suspect trying to commit fraud. Luckin said the system has also helped shave off about one minute per transaction. The CU branded the biometric system, MemberID. [email protected]