What Are the Benefits of Using Biometric Fingerprint Scanners in Hardware Wallets?

As cryptocurrency adoption accelerates and digital assets become increasingly valuable, the need for robust security solutions is more urgent than ever—especially for self-custody users and high-net-worth individuals. Hardware wallets have long been the gold standard for securing private keys offline. Still, a new wave of innovation is making them even safer and more user-friendly: .

What Is Biometric Authentication in Hardware Wallets?

Biometric authentication uses unique physical characteristics—like a fingerprint—to verify your identity. In the context of hardware wallets, this means adding a fingerprint scanner to the device as an additional security layer, not a replacement for traditional PIN codes. With most secure wallets, including NGRAVE ZERO, the PIN code remains mandatory, and the fingerprint is an optional enhancement for authentication and transaction signing.

Why Are Biometric Fingerprint Scanners a Game-Changer?

1. Enhanced Security Through Multi-Layered Authentication

While traditional hardware wallets rely on PIN codes or passphrases, adding biometric authentication provides an extra barrier. Even if a PIN code is compromised, an attacker would need the correct fingerprint to access the wallet or sign transactions. This two-factor approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

2. User Convenience Without Compromising Safety

Biometric authentication streamlines the process of accessing your wallet and confirming transactions. After entering the correct PIN, users can quickly authenticate with a fingerprint. This combination balances convenience and security, especially for those who access their wallets frequently and on the go.

3. Protection Against Common Attack Vectors

Biometric hardware wallets defend against several prevalent threats:

• Physical theft: A stolen device cannot be accessed without both the PIN and the registered fingerprint.
• Brute-force attacks: Multiple failed attempts can trigger device wipes or lockouts, protecting your assets.
• Social engineering: Biometric authentication removes the risk of being tricked into revealing all credentials, as the fingerprint cannot be phished or guessed.

4. Ideal for Multi-User and High-Value Scenarios

Some biometric wallets allow multiple fingerprints to be registered, enabling secure, convenient access for trusted family members or business partners—always alongside the mandatory PIN code.

How NGRAVE ZERO Uses Biometric Security

NGRAVE ZERO stands out in the hardware wallet market by integrating a biometric fingerprint scanner in its multi-layered security framework. Here’s how it works:

Mandatory PIN Code, Optional Fingerprint

NGRAVE ZERO requires all users to set a PIN code. The fingerprint scanner is optional and can be enabled to add an extra layer of security for unlocking the device and/or signing transactions. This approach ensures that relying on a fingerprint alone is never deemed safe enough; the PIN code is always required.

Advanced Fingerprint Sensor

The device features a 12x12mm fingerprint sensor on its back, allowing up to five fingerprints to be registered. Users can configure whether they want to require a fingerprint for unlocking, transaction signing, or both. This flexibility lets users tailor their security setup to their needs.

Biometrics in Key Generation

A unique aspect of NGRAVE ZERO’s security model is its use of biometrics during private key creation. When generating the “NGRAVE Perfect Key”—a secure, 64-character hexadecimal key convertible to a traditional 24-word seed phrase—the device incorporates your fingerprint as a variable, adding entropy and uniqueness to your wallet’s private key.

Multi-Layered Tamper Protection

NGRAVE ZERO combines fingerprint authentication with mandatory PIN codes and advanced hardware safeguards. If tampering or unauthorized access is detected, internal sensors can trigger a complete device wipe, erasing all sensitive data and private keys. This ensures that even in the event of physical theft, your assets remain secure. Learn more about how NGRAVE protects their users.

Privacy and Control

All fingerprint data is stored locally and encrypted on the air-gapped device, never leaving the hardware or being transmitted externally. Users can manage their fingerprints through device settings, adding or removing prints as needed. If biometric authentication fails or is not preferred, users can always rely on PIN-only access.

Certifications and Trust

NGRAVE ZERO is the only hardware wallet to achieve EAL7 secure OS certification—the highest security certification in the industry—alongside RoHS and CE marks, underscoring its commitment to user security and regulatory compliance.

Are Biometric Wallets Safe? Addressing Common Questions

Q: Can someone “fake” my fingerprint?

A: Modern scanners, such as the one in NGRAVE ZERO, use advanced sensors that are difficult to spoof. However, the device always requires the correct PIN code as well, making unauthorized access extremely difficult.

Q: What if my fingerprint changes or is damaged?

A: If locked out of your NGRAVE ZERO, you can wipe the device and import your backup. After 5 failed fingerprint attempts to log in, you will get the option to reset your ZERO. When the device reboots, define a new PIN, add your fingerprint(s), import your backup key, and add your coins to the dashboard again.

Q: Is my biometric data at risk?

A: NGRAVE ZERO stores biometric templates only on the device, encrypted under EAL7 security, and inaccessible to external parties.

Who Should Use a Biometric Hardware Wallet?

• High-net-worth individuals: Extra protection for large holdings.
• Active traders: Fast, secure access without compromising on safety.
• Multi-user households or businesses: Convenient, secure shared access.
• Anyone seeking the latest in crypto security: Stay ahead of evolving threats.

Conclusion

Biometric fingerprint scanners are setting a new standard for hardware wallet security, blending ironclad protection with seamless usability. For self-custody users and high-net-worth individuals, these devices offer peace of mind and a frictionless experience, ensuring your digital assets remain truly yours.

Ready to upgrade your crypto security? Explore NGRAVE ZERO and take control of your financial future today.