What’s The Problem With Passwords?
Passwords are an inherently flawed method of protection in the modern age. The vast majority of internet users have multiple accounts on multiple platforms, and each one should be protected with a different password. This could mean that users need to remember tens – if not hundreds – of unique passwords. For many, this simply isn’t a reasonable expectation. As a result, passwords get reused.
When a data breach happens (as it has on major platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Equifax) passwords get compromised. If the password is being reused across many logins, the data breach can be devastating.
Let’s say your Facebook password gets exposed. If you use that same password for your eBay account, the hacker could start making unauthorised bids and purchases on your profile. Or, in an even worse case scenario, your online banking could be compromised, leaving you wide open to theft.
Password Management Systems
Password management systems can support you in creating and storing unique passwords for each login. You use one master password to unlock the encrypted system, which stores all the logins you have in one secure place. Services like LastPass and 1Password are used by individuals and companies alike. Not only do they allow users to store multiple passwords, they also make it easier to create complex credentials that are pretty much impossible to guess.
They don’t solve all of the issues associated with passwords, but they do help to minimise the risks that are easy to fall into.
Enter Passwordless Authentication
As online security continues to develop, there are new authentication technologies emerging. From 2FA (two-factor authentication) to temporary passkeys, major online companies like Google are embracing new ways to login.
These methods are designed to reduce our reliance on passwords alone. Instead of needing something you already know to login, these systems now require a device or security key that only the user has access to.
Google has rolled out passkey support across Gmail and Android devices, which require users to log in using facial recognition, fingerprint scans or their phone password.
What Is Two-Factor Authentication?
What Is A Passkey?
Are We Really Ditching Traditional Passwords?
The way things are going, it does look like traditional passwords are slowly being phased out. Or at least, they are being relied upon less as a single security measure. Combining strategies is currently the most effective way to keep your online platforms secure, leaving the smallest chance of compromise.
To ensure you’re keeping your information secure, we’d recommend using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication and trying out passkey logins where they’re available.
Written by Alice Farley
