iProov supplies AEGON’s challenger Knab with biometrics for SCA

By Sunniva Kolostyak

iProov, the digital authentication provider, has partnered with Dutch challenger Knab Bank to deploy one of the first uses of cloud biometrics for Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) in Europe.

The SCA solution is combined with customer onboarding and is the first major deployment of its kind for iProov, which specialises in providing spoof-resistant, biometric facial authentication technology.

Knab, the Netherlands-based online-only bank owned by multinational life insurance, pensions and asset management firm AEGON will now be able to provide an effortless online biometric experience to its nearly 500,000 customers.

The collaboration represents a number of firsts for iProov; it is the first time the FinTech has been used for SCA by a bank in Europe, and one of the very first production deployments of any device-independent biometric for SCA.

The step-up authentication capabilities in iProov’s patented Flashmark technology are being rolled out in a variety of scenarios. A key use will be Knab’s re-binding process – i.e. when a user deletes the bank’s app, updates the app or loses their device and needs to re-verify their identity. The ability to process transfers and payments using iProov will go live shortly and further applications are planned. Moreover, the solution is fully automatic and does not use human agents.

Andrew Bud, Founder and CEO, iProov said: “Digital banks owe their success to their customer experience. A fast and easy onboarding process, with effortless strong customer authentication, makes all the difference in attracting and retaining customers in an increasingly competitive environment. Knab leads thanks to superb commitment to its customers, and iProov is very proud to be part of their best-in-class banking experience.”

Knab will utilise the tech to complete ongoing ID verification for all new customers opening an account and move away from its previous token-based solution – dispensing with costly and unpopular hardware and the associated administrative burden.

iProov added that the Dutch regulator has been a European leader in encouraging banks to adopt innovative Know Your Customer (KYC) technology to enhance compliance, meaning banks have increasingly turned to new digital journeys and emerging technologies to meet regulatory challenges and prevent fines.

Marcel Kalse, Co-Founder of Knab, said: “Our customers really are everything to Knab. That’s why we chose iProov – like us, they are clear leaders in delivering the very best customer experience without compromising on the highest standards of security and compliance.”

The announcement of the partnership comes after completing rigorous security and customer testing, and assessment for national and EBA compliance.