New Ways to Prove Your I.D.
Always struggling to remember your passwords and PINs? Don't worry, chances are they'll soon be replaced by tech-friendly identification software.
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Newsletter sign up Newsletter

The days of PINs and passwords are numbered as more companies embrace futuristic identification software designed to combine practicality with protection.
Delta Air Lines has started testing facial recognition technology at a self-service bag drop in the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport. Passengers will check in with the airline and check their luggage at a kiosk that scans their passport photo and their face to confirm that the two match. If they do, off go the bags to the plane. Delta will analyze customer feedback from the trial before using the scanners in other airports.
MasterCard is testing credit cards with built-in fingerprint scanners that add a layer of biometric security when you’re shopping. When making a purchase, cardholders will place a thumb on the card’s scanner, located in the top right corner of the card, to verify their identity. Customers who scan won’t have to enter a passcode. MasterCard says it is aiming for a consumer rollout sometime this year.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Vanguard, the investment giant, introduced a voice verification service in 2010. When a customer who has signed up for the service calls Vanguard, the system compares the voice on the phone to a recording on file. A match acts as the key that unlocks the customer’s account.
-
-
Dollar Tree Has Stopped Selling This One Staple
Shopping Dollar Tree stores are taking eggs off their shelves due to high prices.
By Quincy Williamson • Published
-
Ford and Honda Recall Nearly 2 Million Vehicles. Is Yours Affected?
Ford and Honda have recalled models including the popular F-150, CR-V and Accord for issues with brakes, wipers and more.
By Ben Demers • Published
-
Best Cash Back Credit Cards March 2023
Smart Buying Looking for the credit card that pays the most cash back? These lenders may pay hundreds of dollars, with minimum hassle.
By Lisa Gerstner • Last updated
-
I-Bond Rate Is 6.89% for Next Six Months
Investing for Income If you missed out on the opportunity to buy I-bonds at their recent high, don’t despair. The new rate is still good, and even has a little sweetener built in.
By David Muhlbaum • Last updated
-
What Are I-Bonds?
savings bonds Inflation has made Series I savings bonds enormously popular with risk-averse investors. How do they work?
By Lisa Gerstner • Last updated
-
Your Guide to Open Enrollment 2023
Employee Benefits Health care costs continue to climb, but subsidies will make some plans more affordable.
By Rivan V. Stinson • Published
-
Watch Out for Flood-Damaged Cars from Hurricane Ian
Buying & Leasing a Car In the wake of Hurricane Ian, more flood-damaged cars may hit the market. Car prices may rise further because of increased demand as well.
By Bob Niedt • Last updated
-
What You Need to Know About Life Insurance Settlements
life insurance If your life insurance payments don’t seem worth it anymore, consider these options for keeping the value.
By David Rodeck • Published
-
Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards March 2023
credit cards Business road warriors and leisure travelers can use travel rewards credit cards to turn miles logged into other things — including more travel.
By Lisa Gerstner • Last updated
-
What Is APR?
Even for those who pay off their credit card balances every month, knowing your APR is part of keeping good credit habits.
By Rivan V. Stinson • Last updated