Identity verification system resistant to compromise by observation of its use

A system for providing access to a secure device, comprising:

• input means for receiving user identification information;
• verification means coupled to said input means, for determining whether said user identification information is indicative of an authorized user of said secured device and for denying access to said secure device when said identification information is not indicative of an authorized user;
• display means, coupled to said input means for displaying a plurality of symbols in a row and column array, said plurality of symbols including a subset of key symbols which are elements of an access key corresponding to said user identification information;
• manipulator means, coupled to said display means, for simultaneously changing a displayed position of a multiplicity of said symbols;
• signal means, for indicating when a user is finished changing said displayed position;
• comparison means, coupled to said signal means, for comparing a displayed state of said key symbols with a key state defining said access key when said signal means indicates that said user is finished displaying said symbols;
• and,
• access authorization means, coupled to said comparison means, for providing access to said secure device when said comparison means indicates that said displayed state of said key symbols matches said access key.

A method of providing access to a secure device, comprising the steps of:

• receiving user identification information;
• displaying a plurality of symbols in an initial state, said plurality of symbols including a subset of key symbols which are elements of a user access key corresponding to said user identification information;
• simultaneously changing a displayed state of a multiplicity of said plurality of symbols;
• after said changing, comparing a displayed state of said key symbols with a key state defining said user access key;
• and,
• providing access to said secure device when said comparing indicates that said displayed state of said key symbols matches said user access key.