Passwordless authentication methods have become increasingly popular in the digital era, as companies try to secure their data and protect their clients’ privacy. The use of passwords has long been a standard practice, but with the growth of the internet, cyber threats have also seen a significant rise. Passwords are no longer enough to protect sensitive information, and stronger cybersecurity measures are required.
Biometric authentication is one such method of passwordless authentication, which uses a user’s biological factors, such as retina scans and fingerprints, to identify them uniquely. Biometric factors are known as inherence factors, and this technology grants a user access based on their physical characteristics. These methods have become more secure and challenging to replicate with the rise of AI. Facial recognition and fingerprint scanning are two such examples of biometric authentication.
Possession factors are another form of passwordless authentication, where ownership or possession factors are used to grant access through devices that are in the user’s possession. This method includes devices like mobile phones that are often used in authentication processes. When registering for a new app, the user will receive one-time passcodes through SMS or push notifications from an authenticator app. Only upon responding to those notifications can the user gain access to the particular platform.
Magic links are another popular form of passwordless authentication that rely on email addresses to log into an account. The user clicks the magic link received in their email, and the app grants direct access to the user. Popular websites and apps that use magic links include Slack and Medium.
Implementing passwordless authentication methods leads to stronger cybersecurity and reduced costs in the long term for businesses. With the traditional use of passwords, businesses often struggle with generating and remembering hundreds of passwords, which can lead to security breaches. On the other hand, passwordless authentication mitigates the chances of attacks like credential stuffing, account takeovers, password theft/brute force attacks, and phishing. Moreover, implementing passwordless authentication methods increases the client experience and significantly reduces the volume of support tickets.
While passwordless authentication methods are superior to traditional passwords, businesses need to adopt best practices to secure their data. Implementing secured authenticator apps, accepting the latest OTP code and minimising failed attempts are essential practices for possession factors. Similarly, taking care of biometric data and having backups for possible malfunctioning while authenticating are necessary. Finally, businesses must ensure that email delivery services can send magic links quickly, reducing the chances of these links ending up in spam folders.
In conclusion, passwordless authentication has become a more secure and robust means of authenticating digital identities. With cyber threats continuously on the rise, businesses must implement these measures to secure their data and protect their clients’ privacy. Biometric authentication, possession factors, and magic links are some of the most popular and effective methods of passwordless authentication available today. However, businesses must adopt best practices to ensure the security and privacy of their clients’ data.