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Do you know what palm vein identification is? Well, we will familiarise you with this biometric identification process through the course of this article.
You may have come across newspaper articles about malpractices in exam centers where one candidate impersonates another or a candidate has taken the exam on behalf of multiple candidates, etc. While these may be amusing to read about, you do not want something similar happening to you. Here is where the palm vein identification process comes into the picture. So let’s understand what is palm vein identification.
Palm Vein Identification
The palm vein identification is a biometric identification process where you place your palm on a scanner. The scanner then records the palm vein pattern of your hand. Once the palm vein pattern is recorded, the vein patterns are compared to those vein patterns of other candidates. This is done so that the test center can identify if there has been an impersonation or theft of identity.
This identification process has been introduced by the GMAC to maintain the integrity of the GMAT and to ensure that malpractices are avoided. Therefore, when you attend your test, make sure that your palms are uncovered.
How Does the Palm Vein Identification Process Work?
The GMAT typically uses the PalmSecure sensor made by Fujitsu for recording your palm vein pattern. To record your pattern, you have to hold your palm a couple of inches above the two-inch-square sensor for several seconds. An infrared light scans your palm vein and converts it into a secure digital template.
When is the Palm Vein Identification Taken?
The palm vein identification process takes place as you enter the test center. It is also conducted again when you are back to the exam hall after taking a break.
Palm Vein Identification Benefits
Duration: Scanning your palm vein is a simple process that should not take more than a few minutes. This is something that will be over in a jiffy.
Hassle: This process is rather easy, less cumbersome and hassle-free when compared to fingerprinting.
Security: The palm vein pattern readers use digital encryption, which means it is unique to a user’s system. This in turn ensures that the pattern is protected, secure, and cannot be misused in any manner.
Constinstency: The palm veins, like your fingerprints, stay the same as you age and through sickness or injury, making it as unique as your fingerprint.
Accuracy: The PalmSecure sensor is extremely accurate. The sensor has shown 99.99 percent accuracy rate with a false acceptance rate of about 0000.8. The false acceptance rate refers to the possibility of two palm patterns being similar.
At the Test Center
There are a couple of things to note, in addition to the benefits and definition of palm vein identification. These are as follows:
- Going through a palm vein identification process does not mean that you can leave behind your photo ID.
- If you are taking the GMAT for the first time, the palm vein patterns of both your hands will be taken.
- If you are retaking the GMAT, then your palm vein pattern would be recorded. However, at the test center, you are required to scan your palm again as it will be compared to your previous hand vein pattern.
- The GMAT also requires you to have a photograph of yourself, and you will be requested to sign on a digital signature pad.
If you didn’t know about the GMAT palm vein identification, then we hope you are aware now. All the best!
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