The Future of Passwords

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No one loves passwords! As a user of dozens of programs, applications, and websites, you have to choose complex passwords, including special characters, lowercase and uppercase letters, and numbers. It is never safe to write passwords on either your mobile phone, computer, any device connected to the Internet, or even in your notebook even if this is a safer option if you are sure that it will never end up in the hands of anyone but yourself. You also have to remember all your passwords and frequently change them; some applications, such as bank accounts, even force you to change your password every set period. All these complications led the world to think in a different way to protect your electronic accounts, especially with the appalling development of hacking programs, to find alternative solutions that are more confidential and discreet, yet less complicated.

Password Alternatives

In March 2021, Microsoft announced the possibility to sign in to all of its accounts and services without the need to use passwords, replacing that with the use of one of its applications to sign in; such as the Microsoft Authenticator and the Windows Hello application.  Both programs keep a backup of your account data that enables you to access them without the need to type your username and password. Instead, it uses other means to confirm your logins, such as sending a confirmation code to your mobile phone or E-mail, using your fingerprint, or even using facial recognition tools to log in securely.

Is the World Safer without Passwords?

The main purpose of dispensing with passwords was not only to make it easier for the user but to secure the accounts even stronger. Having a constant password, even if it is frequently changed, is not completely secure and hackers can somehow compromise your accounts. Will using alternative means of logging in achieve sufficient security?

Unfortunately, the answer is "No". Although these solutions seem safer, the astonishing development in hacking methods enables hackers to track confirmation codes, fingerprints, and facial recognition software. It may be more difficult than cracking frequently used passwords, but it is not impossible. This reaffirms the famous Internet principle: "It is not a safe place for your data".

References

cnbc.com

microsoft.com


Cover Image by Freepik.

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