logo
logo
Sign in

From Passwords to Protection – Enhancing Cyber Security via Passwordless Authentication

avatar
Manohar Parakh

Enhancing Cyber Security via Passwordless Authentication

Stolen passwords are a factor in 81% of breaches, highlighting the critical importance of cyber security. It has long been known that passwords are not secure. They are difficult to recall and simple to lose, making them susceptible to various cyber security threats. They are also the primary target of online fraudsters, underscoring the need for robust cyber security measures.


Without the use of a password, passwordless authentication verifies a user’s identity, enhancing cyber security. The usage of biometrics (fingerprint, retina scans) or possession factors (registered smartphones, one-time passwords [OTP], etc.) as opposed to passwords is safer and more resilient against cyber security attacks.


Let’s take a closer look at passwordless authentication and its significance in cyber security.


What Kinds of Authentication Are Passwordless?

There are many methods to accomplish passwordless authentication, all contributing to better cyber security. To name a few:


Biometrics: A person can be uniquely identified by physical characteristics like fingerprints or retinal scans, enhancing cyber security. Behavioral traits like typing and touch screen dynamics also play a role in this secure authentication method.


Aspects of Possession: Authentication by a possession or item that the user is carrying, adding to cyber security. A hardware token, an OTP sent through SMS, or a code produced by a smartphone authenticator app are a few examples.


Magic Links: When a user inputs their email address, the system automatically sends them an email. The email includes a link that, when clicked, gives the user access, improving cyber security.


What Is the Process for Passwordless Authentication?


Passwords are replaced by other, inherently safer authentication variables in passwordless authentication, bolstering cyber security. During password-based authentication, a user-provided password is compared to the database’s entries.


Comparisons may take place in different ways in other passwordless systems. For instance, a system might transmit a one-time passcode through SMS to a user’s mobile device, adding an extra layer of cyber security. The same concepts that govern digital certificates apply to passwordless authentication, utilizing cryptographic key pairs for added cyber security.


Read More>>


collect
0
avatar
Manohar Parakh
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more