Innovation from the university: the birth of the idea
In 2022, as part of their senior project, they participated in the project fair organized by the school. At that event, the multinational company Evertec presented a challenge: to develop a payment system using biometrics. The graduates decided to work on this project because they were interested in the possibility of implementing an innovative, practical payment method that would solve problems such as the need to remember PINs or carry cash and cards.
After that process, they determined that fingerprints were the most viable option, as they serve as a unique identifier and are widely accepted by users.
Technical Challenges: A Deep Dive into the World of Biometrics
“One of the first challenges was finalizing the project design. We held meetings with Evertec to ensure that our solution would be user-friendly. We focused on understanding biometrics from multiple angles, analyzing different technologies—such as facial, iris, and palm recognition—but ultimately chose fingerprint recognition because of its balance between security and ease of use,” explains Sol.
The biggest technical challenge was integrating biometrics with the payment platforms.
We had to figure out which sensors were compatible, how to connect them to our app, and, most importantly, how to ensure that users felt comfortable using this payment method. All of this was compounded by the need to meet reasonable deadlines for obtaining the devices.
Technology Integration: How the Biometric Payment System Works
The project involved developing two systems. First, they created a mobile app that functions as a digital wallet, where users can register their payment methods and link them to their fingerprint. The app uses Evertec’s payment tokenization technology, which means that card numbers are converted into encrypted tokens for enhanced security.
In addition, they developed a desktop application connected to the fingerprint reader, which allows users to register their biometric data and make secure payments. When a user wishes to make a payment, the system prompts them to scan their fingerprint and then displays the previously registered payment methods. The user selects the desired method, and the system uses Evertec’s payment gateway to complete the transaction quickly and securely.
Data security: a priority from the start
From the outset of the project, the security and privacy of biometric data were key considerations.
We implement an encryption system from the moment biometric data is captured. The data is securely stored in the AWS cloud using relational databases that ensure strict control over access to the information.
Impact and potential in the Uruguayan market
“We believe this system has the potential to revolutionize the payments market in Uruguay. Until we completed our project, there was no system in the country that allowed for fingerprint payments. This technology is already in use at major international chains, and we believe that its adoption in Uruguay could provide greater security, speed, and efficiency in transactions, as well as reduce operating costs,” explains Fiorella.
Key takeaways: an enriching experience
"One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was having the opportunity to develop a complete software solution from the product discovery phase through to delivery. We participated in every phase of the software development cycle, taking on various roles and learning about the importance of efficient management at each stage. We also gained valuable experience in communicating with the client, which enabled us to effectively address and overcome challenges," says Carolina.
The Future of the System: Scaling and Commercialization Opportunities
Regarding the future of the project, the graduates explain that after they completed their thesis about a year ago, the project was handed over to Evertec, which presented it to the university so that other students could continue developing it. “Although we are not currently involved in its development, we would be proud to see the system implemented in the country. We believe it has great potential to be scaled up and adopted by various businesses,” says Carolina.
Pilot test results: a promising reception
During the pilot tests, users expressed their satisfaction with the solution, and many of them asked when it would be available on the market. This positive feedback confirmed to them that there is a demand for this type of solution in the market. The graduates know there is a lot of work ahead, especially in terms of data security and efficient integration with existing systems, but they are convinced that the project has a promising future.
Training and Support from the School of Engineering
“The comprehensive training we received at the School of Engineering was key to tackling a project of this magnitude,” says Fiorella, adding, “From the use of agile methodologies to the design of scalable architectures, we applied much of the knowledge we gained in our classes. “In addition, the support of our advisor, Álvaro Ortas, was essential in guiding us through each stage, ensuring that we had the necessary tools to overcome the challenges we faced.”
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