In a recent interview with Biometric Update, iBeta’s Deputy Director of Biometrics, Dr. David Yambay, shared insights on how biometric testing has evolved from early creative experiments to today’s accredited, standards-driven evaluations. His career path reflects both the innovation and discipline required to advance a field that impacts security, compliance, and global trust.
Creativity in the Early Days
Dr. Yambay’s introduction to biometric testing came through the Liveness Detection competition (LivDet), where researchers tested systems against “presentation attack instruments” (PAIs). Back then, creativity was as critical as technology. Simple materials like playdough were used to reveal weaknesses in biometric recognition systems. While unconventional, these tests exposed how easily unproven systems could be fooled.
What began as experimentation quickly became a rigorous scientific discipline. By applying curiosity and persistence, researchers helped shape the modern understanding of liveness detection and presentation attack detection (PAD).
Why Independent Testing Became Essential
As the industry matured, so did expectations. Vendors could no longer rely on in-house validation alone. Independent testing became the standard, not only to meet compliance but also to build vendor credibility.
Dr. Yambay explains: “It’s past the point where people can use in-house testing and actually say, ‘this is what we’re doing.’” Banks, fintech companies, healthcare providers, and government agencies now demand unbiased results that prove systems can withstand sophisticated attacks.
This demand paved the way for ISO standards and accreditation programs, frameworks that iBeta is uniquely positioned to deliver as an independent, NVLAP-accredited testing lab.
The Role of Standards in a Growing Industry
Today, biometric testing is defined by internationally recognized benchmarks like ISO/IEC 19795 (biometric performance testing) and ISO/IEC 30107 (presentation attack detection). Independent labs ensure biometric systems meet these standards under real-world conditions, replicating variables like lighting changes, device types, and even spoofing attempts with 3D printing.
Emerging technologies, such as deepfake detection, are the next frontier. As standards for these threats develop, iBeta will continue to expand its testing portfolio, ensuring that biometric systems are not only innovative but also secure, reliable, and credible.
From Curiosity to Credibility
The journey from playdough to international standards illustrates what makes independent testing so vital: it combines creativity, expertise, and rigorous process. At iBeta, this philosophy underpins every biometric test we conduct.
Our team doesn’t just validate systems; we ensure they can be trusted under pressure by regulators, by vendors, and most importantly, by the people whose identities they protect.
Why This Matters for Biometric Developers
For vendors, independent certification isn’t optional. It’s the path to market credibility. Accredited testing demonstrates compliance, uncovers hidden vulnerabilities, and provides the assurance that your system can withstand real-world use.
Dr. Yambay’s story shows that what began as creative experimentation is now the backbone of modern biometric security. At iBeta, we continue that legacy by providing the clarity, independence, and assurance that the biometrics industry, and its users, demand.
Contact us today to discuss your project needs.