Security codes

[Kadratis]

I remember Neelix needing help looking up the comm log in Engineering (Investigations) where an engineer (Hogan) uses an engineering security code. Later on, Neelix uses the same exact code to override a locked door to Paris' quarters. WTF?

 

[Timo]

A shame prefix codes either weren't in use or nobody thought to use them during "The Ultimate Computer". Or "Equinox".

The remote control code only worked against Khan because Khan didn't know of its existence. A more educated opponent, such as the M-5 or Captain Ransom, would take precautions against the use of the code, just like Spock suspected Khan might do if he were clever enough.

It didn't work against Captain Maxwell for long, either.

Timo Saloniemi

 

[indolover]

One thing I don't understand is how voice activation/recognition is used. What if a Founder posed as a Starfleet officer and copied his/her voice? Data was able to copy Picard's voice, and gain legitimate access to the ship's computer.

Surely biometrics is a better option for physical security. Simply use a retina scan or a unique DNA sample.

 

[Rom's Sehlat]

Surely biometrics is a better option for physical security. Simply use a retina scan or a unique DNA sample.

DNA: Here's a replicated cotton swab I ran across the handle of his dresser this morning. "Access granted."
Retina scan: Holomatter? Or are holographic images of people designed to not have real retina prints?

 

[DonIago]

If the computer can't distinguish between a holographic eye and one attached to a living being, that's a pretty sad statement on the computer's abilities.

 

[T'Girl]

DNA: Here's a replicated cotton swab I ran across the handle of his dresser this morning. "Access granted."

If the identity scanner preformed a "full body" DNA scan, simply possessing a small sample of someone's genetic material would do you no good, plus the computer would then have you on record (your DNA) as attempting an unauthorized entry.

Welcome to the brig.

 

[Tauran]

It makes no difference at the end of the day, no matter how good the security there will always be someone who can crack it.

 

[Timo]

}DNA: Here's a replicated cotton swab I ran across the handle of his dresser this morning. "Access granted."

In "Civil Defense", that didn't appear to be an option. If Cardassian sensors can doubly challenge Garak by demanding a verbal access code and correct DNA, and our heroes cannot think of a way to make the sensors think that Garak is Dukat even if the agent uses Dukat's codewords. If Cardassian sensors are that good and Federation countermeasures that weak, then the system probably is universally secure.

Retina scan: Holomatter? Or are holographic images of people designed to not have real retina print?

It should be trivially easy to alter one's retina patterns surgically in the TNG era. Which may be why we never see that security protocol again after the TOS movies.

Timo Saloniemi