In a world where deepfakes and digital impersonation are growing concerns, Pairwise Authentication of Humans is an innovative solution for two humans to verify each other’s identity remotely.
The system works by generating a time-based one-time passcode (TOTP) specific to each pair of individuals, allowing them to confirm their authenticity when speaking over the phone or via video call.
The process is simple: both individuals input their names on the same webpage and click “Generate,” which displays two TOTP QR codes specific to each person.
These QR codes are scanned into a TOTP mobile app, such as Authy or Google Authenticator, on each individual’s mobile phone.
In the future, when the individuals need to authenticate each other, one can request the other to provide the 6-digit TOTP code from their mobile app.
If the codes match, it confirms the likelihood of speaking with the genuine individual, while a mismatch provides discretion, indicating a potential identity crisis.
Repeat usage of the system allows individuals to recognize patterns and add an additional layer of security through the possibility of recognizing irregularities.