BBChain

Efficient Trustworthy Computing with Blockchains and Biometrics

This project is developing novel intrusion-tolerant blockchain structures, algorithms, and systems based on biometrics, such as fingerprints, speech- and face recognition. Beyond conducting basic research on permissionless computer systems and algorithms, the project is also constructing a prototype system for secure and permanent storage of digital artifacts, such as health records and grade transcripts. Our goal is to provide authenticity and availability of stored artifacts at a security level not possible with existing technology. We do this by combining our energy efficient blockchain protocol with biometrics. This implies preventing unauthorized manipulation or removal of data; even in the event that some of the participating computers have failed or are controlled by an attacker. The system ensures that users can always retrieve stored artifacts based on secure biometrics-based access.

The potential impact of the project is a substantial improvement in the trust placed on digital artifacts and services, since they can be inextricably tied to their owners through biometrics. This can help ensure the authenticity and accuracy of important artifacts such as health records and grade transcripts.

The project is funded by the Research Council of Norway with a 10 million NOK grant from the FRIPRO program.

Master Thesis Projects Associated With BBChain

• Pariwesh Subedi, Deploying Credentials using the Libra Blockchain: Design, Implementation and Evaluation, 2020.
• Simen André Jakobsen, Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of Academic Credentials on the Hyperledger Fabric Blockchain, 2020.
• Eivind Bakkevig, Implementing a Distributed Key-Value Store Using Corums, 2020.
• Elisabeth Bratli, Document Verification System on iOS with Face ID/Touch ID, 2019.
• Vebjørn Kaldahl Bottenvik, Biometric Authentication from ECG Signals on Wearable Devices, 2019.
• Racin Nygaard, Distributed Storage with Strong Data Integrity based on Blockchain Mechanisms, 2018.