Introduction
With the increasing amount of time people spend online, one of the most popular tips from cybersecurity experts is account security.
Protecting your accounts can save you a lot of damage from hackers' increasingly sophisticated methods of accessing people's information online, experts urge.
A cyber attack occurs every 39 seconds, and 95% of cyber-attacks are caused by human error.
Passwords
Passwords are the most common for account security.
Reasons
Familiarity: Most people have been using passwords for years, making the concept and process of creating and remembering passwords safe.
Compatibility: The simplicity of using the same password across devices and applications increases its appeal to users.
Its flexibility:- Passwords are versatile and can be customized according to user's preferences. Users create complex passwords that contain special characters, uppercase and lowercase letters.
However, passwords have limitations.
Cons of Passwords
Passwords can be weak if users choose common passwords that are easy to guess or reuse the same password across multiple accounts. It leaves them vulnerable to hackers and puts their personal information at risk.
Complexity:- Complex passwords are sometimes harmful to users because they are difficult to remember, requiring users to write them down, and making them vulnerable to theft or accidental disclosure.
Administration: - Password management can be very difficult for users with multiple accounts. Users must remember multiple passwords or use a password manager, which can be time-consuming.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
On the one hand, two-factor authentication (2FA) is another form of protection, as it is a security process that authenticates users to each other using different forms of authentication, often with the knowledge of email and proof of ownership of a mobile phone.
It has been effective in blocking many types of application-based attacks and combating social engineering attacks.
Cons of Two-factor authentication (2FA)
It has its limitations like
Increased login time:- Users have to take additional steps to log in to the application, which increases the login time.
Integration:- Use of verification codes provided by service providers via SMS which creates dependency issues.
In the event of an error, the company has no control over the external service.
Maintenance:- Without an effective user database and various authentication methods, managing a 2FA system can be a daunting task.
As a result, new technologies continue to emerge to protect account security.
Passkey
A passkey is a digital credential used as a means of authenticating a website or application. It is made to be more convenient and more resistant to phishing than traditional authentication methods.
They are secured by ownership (device or security key) and often use biometrics as an additional security factor, without requiring any user to remember passwords.
The main standard is a passwordless authentication type promoted by the World Wide Web Consortium and the FIDO Alliance.
They are typically stored by the operating system or web browser and synced between devices in the same ecosystem via the cloud, but they can also be limited to a single device, such as a physical security key.
Pass-keys are an alternative to passwords that allow users to log into websites and apps on their devices faster, easier and more securely. Unlike passwords, keys are always strong and resistant to phishing.
It simplifies account registration for apps and websites, is easy to use, and works across most user devices, even those within physical proximity.
How do users use keys?
When a user is prompted to log into an application or website, the user authorizes the login with the same biometric or PIN that unlocks the device (phone, computer or security key).
Applications or websites can use this mechanism instead of traditional (and insecure) usernames and passwords.
That means……
User experience
The user experience will be familiar and consistent across many user devices – by simply verifying a fingerprint or face or device PIN, consumers perform the same simple step multiple times a day to unlock their device.
Pros of Passkeys
Safety:-The keys are based on FIDO authentication, which is proven to protect against phishing threats, credential stuffing and other remote attacks.
Service providers may also offer passwordless keys as an alternative method of logging in or recovering your account.
Scalability:- With the key, users don't have to register new FIDO credentials (typically using a password when logging in for the first time) for each service or each new device. The user's passkey is always available, even if they change devices.
Device-bound keys that do not support synchronization are an option for organizations that need additional proof of the origin of a user's key.
Security:- These are more secure than passwords. They use two-factor authentication that requires a key and a PIN, making it much harder to hack or steal.
Ease of use:- Users simply insert the key, enter the PIN and they are authenticated. No need to remember complex passwords or worry about writing them down.
Management:- Easy to manage. Users only need one key that can be used across multiple accounts. No need to remember multiple passwords or use a password manager.
Cons of PassKeys
Cost:- Passwords can be expensive compared to free passwords and require users to purchase them which can be a barrier for some.
Compatibility:- There are device and application limitations that use the key. Users must ensure that the device or application they wish to use supports the key.
Convenience:- The user must always have the key with them and it can be inconvenient if it is forgotten or lost.
Conclusion
The decision between passwords and keys depends on personal preference and the level of security required for each account.
For high-security accounts, such as bank accounts or financial accounts, it may be worth investing in pass keys.
However, for low-security accounts such as social media or online shopping accounts, a password may be sufficient.
In addition, the two approaches can be combined to increase security.
For example, keys can be used for high-security accounts, while passwords can be used for low-security accounts.
Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to follow account security best practices. It includes creating strong and unique passwords, using two-factor authentication when available, and avoiding sharing passwords or keys with others.
When it comes to account security, both passwords and passkeys have their pros and cons. Passwords are familiar, flexible and relevant but can also be weak, complex and difficult to manage.
Passkeys are more secure, easier to use, and easier to manage, but they can be expensive, incompatible, and less convenient.
Protect your information carefully.