Pixelpin

PixelPin Ltd. offered a behavioral biometrics-based user authentication platform, positioning itself as a more secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional alphanumeric passwords. The company was founded in the UK around 2011 by Brian Taylor and Geoff Anderson. The initial idea came to Taylor, a former military communications consultant, when he observed Metropolitan Police officers struggling with password resets, prompting the thought that a picture-based system would be more intuitive. He partnered with Anderson, who brought over 30 years of experience in managing complex systems in the defence and security markets, to develop the concept.

The core of PixelPin's service was a patented, cloud-based platform that allowed users to log into websites and applications by selecting four specific points in a pre-determined sequence on a personal image of their choice. This method aimed to reduce friction in the user journey, targeting clients in sectors like finance, retail, entertainment, and travel. The platform was designed to be deployed via public cloud, on-premises, or through FIDO (Fast Identity Online) standards, and it integrated using OAuth2 and OpenID Connect for web implementations. The business model focused on providing a single sign-on authentication service to enterprises, which could help reduce costs associated with password resets and customer loss due to login friction. For higher-value transactions, the system could incorporate two-factor authentication.

Throughout its history, PixelPin secured approximately $4.5 million in total funding through various rounds, including support from Innovate UK, crowdfunding platforms like Seedrs, and accelerator programs such as Wayra. A significant funding round in 2019, led by SBI Investment, was intended to finance expansion into Japan and the broader Asian market. The company gained traction with customers like TixCraft, The Growth Hub, and Cashmere. Ultimately, PixelPin was acquired by Trust Stamp on March 18, 2021.

Keywords: passwordless authentication, image-based login, cybersecurity, user authentication, fintech security, secure single sign-on, behavioral biometrics, FIDO certified, access management, customer identity, two-factor authentication, digital journey, secure login, online account security, picture password, Geoff Anderson, Brian Taylor, Trust Stamp acquisition, visual authentication, user experience