Typing technology could help police track down online paedophiles

PAEDOPHILES using the internet to target youngsters could be tracked down – by the way they use a keyboard.

Researchers are investigating ways to use technology that can determine a typist’s age, sex and culture within 10 keystrokes by monitoring their speed and rhythm. Professor Roy Maxion, associate professor at Newcastle University, has been carrying out the research in the US.

Former Northumbria Police detective chief inspector Phil Butler believes the technology could be useful in tracking down online fraudsters and paedophiles.