Passwordless Authentication Enhances Users’ Login Experience

Traditional passwords, once the sole gatekeepers of our digital identities, are no longer seen as a reliable cybersecurity method. Cyber attackers exploit the vulnerabilities of traditional passwords using techniques like man-in-the-middle attacks, brute-force methods and even systematically attempting every conceivable password combination to gain access into an organization’s network. To address these vulnerabilities, Minsait experts advocate for passwordless authentication, a cybersecurity approach that integrates robust authentication methods such as biometric solutions, SMS verification and public-key cryptography.

In comparison, authentication methods that solely rely on username and password combinations are intrinsically vulnerable, according to Minsait. This outdated cybersecurity method incentivizes cybercriminals to exploit login systems through various hacking techniques, enabling them to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and IT systems, thereby putting organizations and individuals at risk. In this context, passwordless authentication appears to have a proximately important role in mitigating the risks of traditional passwords, but there is still considerable ground to cover in terms of promoting its widespread adoption.

“Passwordless authentication is not a technology or an architecture; it [i]s a paradigm shift and a change in mindset, where end users need to be made aware that there is a new, more reliable and convenient way to authenticate themselves,” says Erick Moreno, Cybersecurity Director, Minsait. 

Passwordless authentication has gained traction as an efficient cybersecurity strategy by eliminating cumbersome password management and reducing attack vectors, while offering seamless access to web applications. These added-value capabilities significantly improve user experience by reducing the friction associated with the login process. Additionally, passwordless authentication can simplify employees' login processes and increase productivity by eliminating the need for password resets.

The robustness of passwordless authentication can be attributed to symmetric cryptography, which relies on a public-private key pair for secure digital access. The private key is securely stored on a trusted device, typically a smartphone or a USB. This strategy adds an additional layer of protection as it requires users to physically connect the USB key to access their online accounts securely. It also simplifies the process for users, eliminating the need for password memorization and complexity. 

In fact, Google recently unveiled its passkey tool, which allows users to access services and web applications by providing biometric identification, such as facial or fingerprint recognition. According to the company, 64% of its users preferred applying passkeys than recurring to traditional passwords or two-step verification methods. Additionally, over 62% of the respondents affirmed feeling more secure when leveraging Google's cybersecurity services and tools, underscoring the urgent need to diversify users’ authentication methods. 

Passwordless methods can also be combined with other authentication methods, such as biometric data or security tokens, to create a multi-factor authentication system for enhanced security.