Abstract: A degree of security set for an application and a valid time corresponding to the degree of security are stored in a memory. When an authentication unit performs user authentication using a fingerprint image input through an authentication information input unit and authorizes use of the application by the user, a control unit monitors lapse of the valid time corresponding to the application. When the valid time expires, the control unit request the user to input authentication information, and authentication is repeated at the authentication unit.

Abstract: A pointing device that does not limit an operator by personal physical characteristics is structured as follows. An apparatus incorporating a pointing device includes a fingerprint sensor obtaining image information, a cover protecting a sensor surface, and a sensor presser arranged at a face of the cover on the sensor side so as to be in contact with the sensor surface. The shape of sensor presser obtained with sensor changes by the position on cover being pressed by a finger, and an input is performed based thereon.

Abstract: A pay television IC card includes a storage unit prestoring fingerprint information that allows identification of a registrant, a fingerprint information input unit accepting input of physical description data of a user, a comparison determination unit comparing fingerprint information accepted by the fingerprint information input unit with fingerprint information stored in the storage unit to determine whether the user is the registrant, and a descramble key generation unit providing a descramble key based on the determination result by the comparison determination unit. A descramble key is output by determining whether the user and the registrant are the same person based on fingerprint information, and determination of the sameness between the user and the registrant is established.