[F8] fingerprint scanner

[Alan Cox]

> * linux support for fingerprint scanners is rudimentary, at best
> * The only good software that performs fingerprint recognition is non-free
> * the only GPL variant was barely able to process the image
> * gdm/kdm didn't have any support for fingerprint identification

gdk/kdm are not supposed to have support fingerprint scanners, they
support PAM. PAM in turn lets you introduce all sorts of security
policies and modules to all applications.

There are pam modules for things like smartcards, and you can have fun
with things like "only allow login if mobile phone bluetooth id is local"

> That said, Windows doesn't do fingerprints correctly. The idea behind 
> fingerprints is to establish a 2-factor authentication, not replace 
> passwords. Make sure that this is what you're seeking.
> 
> See here how Mythbusters opened a "strong" fingerprint-only lock with a 
> photocopied fingerprint: 
> http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/22/digital-fingerprint-door-lock-defeated-by-photocopied-print/

Fingerprint is basically gimmickry. Easily fooled and you can't issue
people with new fingerprints, or in the unpleasant case - new fingers.

Alan