Abstract: The various embodiments herein provide an improved apparatus for authenticating a consignee of a consignment. The apparatus is configured to be used by any package handling personnel to collect biometric fingerprint information and signatures in digital format for authenticating a delivery or transaction. The apparatus further includes a location-based module such as GPS for enabling location-based authentication and verification of authenticity of a transaction. The apparatus is further configured to connect to a computing device to send and/or receive information.