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So you use a PIN to make sure nobody can unlock your phone unless they know your code. But what if someone sees your code by looking over your shoulder?

The developers at Cyanogen have introduced a new security tool that lets you scramble the digits that show up on your lock screen, making it a little harder for someone to figure out your PIN code by watching the pattern you tap out with your fingers… since that pattern will be different every time.

cyanogen scramble pin

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3 replies on “Lilbits (11/10/2014): Scrambled PINs”

  1. Yes, likely a problem with patents. I saw an article on “Tri-Pin” which looked really really good. Only downside that I’ve heard is that it isn’t user friendly for anyone who is visually impaired…no braille option.

    The ever-changing set of 3 symbols / colors / numbers means a new scrambled combination each time. There IS a finite combination if your presses are filmed, but hopefully your account locks before they try too many of them.

    https://www.tri-pin.com/
    https://gizmodo.com/the-future-of-pin-could-involve-color-and-shape-buttons-1509670607

  2. I fail to see how this is a good idea. Instead of a quick gesture, you now have to look at the screen and slowly enter your unlock code, ensuring that someone looking over your shoulder gets ample time to look at it.

  3. I’m a little surprised this scrambling wasn’t done before in stock. I’ve had it in at least two online services in the past (one a European bank). Maybe the concept is patent encumbered?

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