Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the BBR and why is Barclays offering it?

The Barclays Biometric Reader (BBR) uses biometric technology as a secure method for login and payment authentication. By using finger vein reader technology and combining this with advanced digital signing, a transaction can be biometrically linked directly to a specific individual. The removal of the need for PINs or passwords helps to eliminate the risk of password capture and sharing and also helps to combat both internal and external fraud.

Will Finger Vein biometric technology work for everyone?

Almost everyone will be able to use the finger vein technology. However, in common with all biometric features, a small percentage of fingers may be difficult to register with the BBR due to their inherent characteristics. If a particular finger is difficult to register, we recommend that the user tries to enrol a different finger.

Is my biometric data kept private?

Your vein pattern is saved on a Smart SIM which sits within the device itself, and which you retain. Barclays will never hold your vein pattern and there is no public record of it.

Which Barclays channels can I use BBR in?

BBR is currently compatible with Barclays.Net and iPortal. If you also use other Barclays’ Digital Channels, do not order a BBR as you will need to continue using your existing PIN Pad reader to access all the channels.

How much does the BBR cost?

The device itself costs £55 and a Smart SIM is free. To discuss further please contact your relationship team.

What do I need for the biometric reader to work?

You would need to order separately 1) the BBR; 2) a Smart SIM for each user. Ordering the BBR will not automatically order the Smart SIM. Each Smart SIM will be accompanied with a Smart SIM holder and a separate letter will be sent to each user containing a one-time PIN for enrolment.

Is my existing PIN Pad reader solution still secure?

Yes. Both solutions offer strong ‘digital signing’ security technology and we will continue to offer both devices. It is entirely your choice as to which one best suits your needs.

Do all of my users need to use BBR or can I 'mix and match'?

We will continue to offer the PIN Pad reader solution. Users can choose either the PIN Pad reader or the BBR, depending on which better suits your needs. However, for security reasons users cannot have accesses to both Smart Card as well as Smart SIM profiles. If you decide to switch to BBR, your existing Smart Card will be de-activated as soon as you have enrolled your finger and activated the Smart SIM (it will continue to work prior).

Do I need a BBR device and a Smart SIM for each of my users?

Although the BBR devices themselves can be shared among users, it is recommended that each user should have their own for a better user experience. Each Smart SIM can only store one user’s vein pattern. Therefore each BBR user will need to purchase his / her own Smart SIM.

Will I be able to use the BBR on multiple computers or will it be assigned to a single computer?

You can use the BBR on any PC which has the required signing software installed and a USB port connection. Its use is not limited to a single computer.

Is any additional software required?

Users are required to download the signing software specific to the BBR device. Full installation instructions will be provided in your welcome letter.

Are there any specific operating system and internet browser requirements?

Please refer to Hardware and software requirements guide for the full list of supported operating systems and browsers.

Barclays will not support the use of the BBR on any operating system / browser outside of our supported list.

Is the BBR device supported for use with application or desktop virtualisation products e.g. Citrix, Microsoft Remote Desktop Services or similar solutions?

The BBR, and supporting software, is verified as “Citrix Ready” for Windows and Mac Receiver clients and is supported on Microsoft Remote Desktop services with Windows clients. The successful redirection of the BBR is dependent on the operating system of the end-user device. For non-Windows thin clients, we would recommend contacting your IT department or third-party IT provider to check compatibility.

Will the BBR software work alongside other third-party Smart Card software which I may already use?

The BBR signing software has been designed to not conflict with other Smart Card software.

How do I order the Barclays Biometric Reader on Barclays iPortal for an existing Smart Card User?

To find out how to order the BBR, please see the Barclays Biometric Reader Order Guide PDF† (65KB - opens in a new window).