Under the agreement, the two companies will be in a position to refer each company's products and services to their existing client base and pursue joint product development efforts.

"We're working to provide the market with the most cutting-edge and effective solutions for their authentication requirements," said Gary Kearns, president, Experian's Decision Analytics. "Authentication based on data and analytics, as well as biometrics, is the best step to ensure multifactor authentication. Having the products integrated will better serve the client and their customers."

The initial joint offering will include Experian's Knowledge IQ powered by Precise ID, featuring challenge-based questions, and US Biometrics' authentication product, Qrl. The integration will result in the essential component of positively identifying an individual during an enrollment process for online services, at a teller location or during other remote-access interfaces. Once the identity is verified and enrollment proceeds, a fingerprint is captured that can be used for ongoing identity verification purposes.

"There are many possibilities for merging US Biometrics' technology with Experian's product line. Together, we will present solutions that solve identification and verification issues today experienced by businesses and consumers," said David Delgrosso, president, US Biometrics. "The melding of technological and marketing strengths will help forge identification solutions for today but also be a springboard to develop solutions for future requirements."

Experian's Decision Analytics business combines data intelligence, analytics, software and consulting to provide credit risk, identity and fraud solutions that help clients increase profitability and improve performance. It's enterprise-wide decisioning solutions enable clients to manage and optimize risk; prevent, detect and reduce fraud; meet regulatory obligations; and gain operational efficiencies. Trusted by leading players worldwide, Experian's Decision Analytics business provides the intelligence to make accurate and informed decisions to help clients better manage their customer relationships.