Scientific Reports (Jan 2018)

Covert lie detection using keyboard dynamics

  • Merylin Monaro,
  • Chiara Galante,
  • Riccardo Spolaor,
  • Qian Qian Li,
  • Luciano Gamberini,
  • Mauro Conti,
  • Giuseppe Sartori

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-20462-6
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8, no. 1
pp. 1 – 10

Abstract

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Abstract Identifying the true identity of a subject in the absence of external verification criteria (documents, DNA, fingerprints, etc.) is an unresolved issue. Here, we report an experiment on the verification of fake identities, identified by means of their specific keystroke dynamics as analysed in their written response using a computer keyboard. Results indicate that keystroke analysis can distinguish liars from truth tellers with a high degree of accuracy - around 95% - thanks to the use of unexpected questions that efficiently facilitate the emergence of deception clues.