Alexandra Borgeaud
Research expert covering cybersecurity and tech in Latin America
Passwordless security- statistics & facts
Have you ever wondered what would happen if passwords became obsolete due to being less secure? Passwordless authentication could be the answer, an alternative solution that aims to replace password-based security. This method allows users to access applications or IT systems without typing in a password or answering security questions. Instead, users can provide alternative forms of evidence, using biometrics such as fingerprints or facial recognition, smart cards, or hardware keys. Passwordless authentication is typically used alongside multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO) solutions to improve user experience, increase cyber security, and simplify IT operations
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Passwordless for security and ease of use
Despite the vulnerability that password security currently presents in the face of the increasing number of cyber breaches and the variety of cyber threats, it remained the most used security method by companies worldwide in 2023. While passwords remain widely implemented globally, passwordless methods, which allow users to access applications or IT systems without typing in a password or answering security questions, have increased in popularity over recent years, particularly among younger generations. Improved user experience counts as one the most significant benefits offered by passwordless authentication, as users no longer have to deal with password fatigue or remember the answers to security questions. This method also reduces the risk of dangerous password management practices and decreases the number of ways attackers can hack into accounts. Implementing passwordless authentication is far from effortless, however, with issues ranging from integration difficulties to budgetary constraints or lack of acceptance by employees.Some key challenges remain
Despite the benefits offered by passwordless authentication, some key security risks and vulnerabilities will endure and will require innovative solutions to ensure individuals’ and companies’ data security worldwide. Major tech companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Google are leading the move away from passwords. They support the Fast ID Online (FIDO) Alliance's standards aimed at replacing passwords and significantly influence the specifications. They also have large user bases and are crucial in the growth of the passwordless authentication market. As these solutions become more accessible, they will become second nature for users.
