he present Research Note explores the potential use of one biometric method, fingerprint authentication, as a substitute for PIN or signature for bank card payments, both credit and debit. The Note identifies the obstacles to be overcome for widespread adoption of this authentication mode in the bank card payment environment and offers examples of both short- and long-term strategies for use of biometrics at the point of service. Many of the challenges facing use of fingerprint biometrics are applicable to other biometrics.