Microsoft’s Windows Hello facial recognition feature has lost its ability to function in dark environments following a recent update. The change, implemented in April, addresses a spoofing vulnerability within Windows Hello, effectively disabling face unlock in low-light conditions.
The alteration was noted by Surface Laptop users who found they could no longer use facial recognition to log in under dark conditions. Microsoft’s April Windows Update patch notes confirm the change: “After installing this update or a later Windows update, for enhanced security, Windows Hello facial recognition requires color cameras to see a visible face when signing in.”
A temporary solution involves disabling the webcam in Device Manager, which restores Windows Hello functionality in the dark. However, this workaround disables the camera for all applications, including video conferencing software.
Windows Hello utilizes both a color camera and infrared (IR) sensors for facial detection. The security vulnerability, discovered by researchers at Nanyang Technological University, was rated “important” by Microsoft. While the specifics of the vulnerability remain undisclosed, Microsoft believes exploitation is “less likely” on a local device.
The company has been contacted regarding the possibility of restoring Windows Hello functionality in dark environments in the future. The article will be updated with any response.
