A Bradford technology expert is looking to break into a £1 billion market with a world-first security system to protect computer software by scanning the eye.

Businessman Karlis Obrams has spent around ten years developing 2secureID, a biometric security system for the domestic market designed to provide peace of mind for home computer users.

The low-cost biometric system uses a webcam and software to map the iris of a computer user’s eye to produce a unique biometric security code.

xVista Biometrics, based in Bradford’s Gumption centre, has developed a system that can be applied on any PC to protect files, folders, programmes and internet access at home or for small-to-medium businesses.

The system is supplied with a high-quality webcam which, when it is not used for biometric applications, can be used as a normal webcam.

Managing director Mr Obrams, who launched the company in 2000, said: “The billion pound biometrics market is growing year on year because an iris cannot be replicated and is unique to the person.

“We live through our computers. Internet banking, transactions, personal information and even home movies are at risk of identify fraud and theft, so it is essential we protect our computers with more than just a character password.

“The iris scanner gives unprecedented confidence that your family’s information is locked away as safely as possible and only you hold the key.”

The technology can also provide a parental lock on addictive online computer gaming, computer games and internet use.

Karlis said: “2secureID can lock designated programs on the computer so that only parents can let their child have access when they see fit. This is an additional, invaluable application for a recurring and prevalent problem for many parents who face the challenges of monitoring their child’s computer activity.”

The Bradford company is taking the product to the Hong Kong Electronics Fair this month. Mr Obrams said he was looking to develop a multi-user version aimed at large businesses.

He said: “Security is a key issue regardless of which industry you are in, so we hope to tailor the scanner to work in a variety of functions including mobile technology, banking and electronics.