Patent attributes
A method and apparatus is disclosed for password/passcode pattern recognition based authentication on a computer virtual screen, which hides passcodes in plain view, visually camouflaged and disguised in a manner that makes them easily and quickly recognizable only to authorized passcode owners. The user proves recognition by selecting patterns of multi-character passcode fragments, in a specific order, from one or more visually challenging, constantly changing dynamic menus. Myriad selection patterns are possible involving all fragments or subsets of fragments. The invention leverages innate human pattern recognition abilities which are superior to machine computational methods. Fragment selection can involve gestures like touching, tapping, or tracing or drawing of fragment connecting paths, or navigation of spring loaded menus; selection can be also be accomplished by biometric measurement of unconscious user recognition. Passcodes can include graphics and images. Selection interaction biometric data can also be included in the authentication process.