Digital threats are constantly evolving, it has never been more critical to secure systems and data. A fundamental aspect of cyber security is authentication. This is the process of verifying someone’s identity before granting them access to sensitive data and services.
What is Authentication
Authentication is a process of verifying the identity of a user, device, or system before allowing it access to sensitive information or services. Imagine you have ordered a parcel; you arrange for the parcel to be dropped at a pickup location. When you arrive to collect the parcel, staff will ask for identification to prove you are the intended recipient. This process is the same concept when attempting access to any information that requires authentication.
Here are some common authentication methods:
- Pins and passwords: This is the most known forms of authentication. It’s simple – you enter a secret code known only to you. You may have also seen the password strength calculators to measure the complexity of your password and judge how strong or weak it might be.
- Physical Objects: This approach requires a physical item such as a security token (an online banking pin sentry device for example), a key card (maybe to access a room or building), or even your mobile phone (contactless payments).
- Biometrics: This form of authentication has become a lot more popular in recent years with the advancement of technology, smart phones as one example. Biometrics use physical traits, like fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans, to verify your identity. These are unique to everyone, making them a very secure form of authentication.
Muti-Factor Authentication (MFA)
As threats become for complex, relying on just one form of authentication isn’t always enough. This is where Multi-Factor Authentication comes in handy. MFA uses two or more methods mentioned above and combines them to make it much harder for attackers to gain access to your systems.
In the UK, businesses, government organisations, and individuals are adopting stronger authentication methods to safeguard against the rising tide of cybercrime.
In Summary
Authentication is your first line of defence in cyber security, and its constantly evolving to stay ahead of new and old threats alike. Passwords and PINS are still commonly used, but stronger methods like biometrics and multi-factor authentication are becoming more common, all to keep you secure and keep the hackers out.