So this is something that is just the right kind of low key annoying that is grinds my gears.
I don’t think this is a fedora specific issue, but I’m putting it here just in case. My framework laptop has a fingerprint scanner. I use fedora workstation, with default gnome and gdm. When I reboot it gives me the option to use the fingerprint scanner and not enter my password. If you do this, it’s a mistake. Now you get to enter your password n number of times (And it better be right each time!) or your session is going to be wonky until you log out or reboot again.
Since your password is required for multiple keychains and stuff - your initial login for a session should always require your password or whatever your keychain uses. Coming back while the session is in progress using the finger print option doesn’t have any issues aside from the if the first scan fails it retry loops in under a millisecond before I can even adjust my finger and I have to enter my password anyways.
That seems to be specific to GDM. On my KDE system with plasma-login-manager, it does not allow me to use the fingerprint reader of my Thinkpad for login. I can only use it for sudo/Polkit or unlocking an existing session.
I have seen this behaviour on my current Thinkpad, too. But it might also depend on the hardware. With a Thinkpad from a few generations ago, I am pretty sure that there actually was a wait period before it tried reading my fingerprint again after failing.
I have made it a habit to lift my finger again immediately after making contact with the scanner, otherwise is uses up all attempts within less than a second and I need to type in my password.
There would not be a help entry in the knowledge base if everything works just normal every time.
Take in consideration to delete all the fingerprints on that machine and try to enroll a new one. Including the Tip of @l-c-g not to keeping the finger to long on the sensor.
From using fingerprint reader on a android device, I know that, when reading the finger, i have to start with the tip of it and rolling it down. Try to create a pattern when already scanning it the first time.
Also a good idea would be to visually check the sensor. If there is a protection foil on it, it could cause some reading difficulties to.
In the end your computer is a Framework computer which promises to replace every single piece. Do not hesitate to use the opportunity to replace the reader. I am sure they will replace it, if you made the steps they proposed in the knowledge base.
P.S.
Still have questions?
We are here to help!
Their own words on the knowledge base page! See above the footer.