The use of complex, long and difficult passwords has been one of the main strategies for guaranteeing the security of online accounts and sensitive information. In an increasingly digitalized and interconnected world, this protection of our privacy and personal data has become a crucial concern. 

However, as cyber threats multiply and hacker attacks become increasingly sophisticated, companies are looking for safer and more convenient alternatives. 

In this context, the passwordless movement has emerged as an innovative and promising response. One study estimates that by 2030, the global passwordless authentication market is expected to be worth around 54 billion dollars. Instead of relying on a combination of hard-to-remember characters, it proposes different login and authentication alternatives capable of eliminating the need for conventional passwords.  

Find out more about this trend for the future, as well as its benefits and risks!  

What is the passwordless movement? 

The passwordless movement is an initiative that seeks to eliminate dependence on conventional passwords as a method of authentication and security.  

Instead, alternative technologies such as biometrics, security tokens, USB keys, push notifications and multi-factor authentication are used to make the login process more convenient, secure and password-free. 

The main idea is to reduce the vulnerabilities associated with traditional passwords, such as the ease with which they can be forgotten, stolen, guessed or reused in different services.  

By adopting biometrics-based solutions, for example, an individual's unique characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition or voice patterns, are used for authentication.  

The growing popularity and adoption of these alternatives reinforces the vision of a future in which traditional passwords become obsolete. 

Benefits of passwordless for companies 

The adoption of passwordless authentication by companies brings a number of significant benefits. See, which are the main ones: 

Increased security 

Passwordless offers a higher level of security compared to traditional passwords.  

What's more, the company will be investing in a new, modern technology. All this is in line with the need to always increase security. 

Improved user experience 

Authentication without passwords offers a more convenient and simplified login experience for users.  

They no longer have to remember complex passwords or face time-consuming password reset processes, resulting in greater user satisfaction and less friction when accessing services and applications. 

Higher productivity 

With passwordless authentication, employees can quickly access the systems and applications they need, without delays caused by forgotten or blocked passwords. This increases the team's overall productivity, allowing them to concentrate on their core tasks instead of dealing with authentication issues. 

Strengthening regulatory compliance 

Depending on the sector in which the company operates, there are specific regulatory requirements for data security and privacy.  

Passwordless can help companies meet these regulations by providing a robust and effective authentication method in line with security best practices. In addition, it complies with different jurisdictions, such as GDPR, LGPD, PCI DSS and ISO/IEC 27001. 

Risks companies face in the future without passwords 

While the passwordless movement offers significant benefits, it is important to recognize the potential challenges and risks that companies may face when adopting this approach.  

Below are some of the main risks to consider: 

Compromised biometrics 

Although biometric-based authentication is considered more secure than traditional passwords, it is not immune to risks. There are security concerns regarding the proper storage and protection of biometric data.  

Unreliable devices 

The reliance on devices for passwordless authentication can be a weak point if they are lost, stolen or compromised. It is essential to ensure that the devices used for authentication have security and protection against unauthorized access. 

Resistance to change 

The introduction of a passwordless approach may meet with resistance from users who may be used to using traditional passwords. Lack of familiarity with new technologies and the need for appropriate education and training can make it difficult for employees to adopt and accept. 

Supplier dependency and interoperability 

Implementing passwordless authentication may require the adoption of solutions provided by third parties. It is important to ensure that these suppliers are committed to appropriate security standards and practices.  

Technological failures and exclusions 

No system is perfect, and the same applies to passwordless authentication. Technological failures, software bugs or connectivity problems can occur, preventing access to systems and applications. Certain forms of biometric-based authentication can also exclude people with physical disabilities or medical conditions that affect the accurate reading of biometric data. 

Ways to protect yourself in a passwordless world 

When implementing passwordless authentication, companies must be aware of these risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.  

This involves applying appropriate security measures, such as: 

• Two-factor authentication (2FA): a second verification method in addition to the password; 
• Hardware-based authentication: use of physical devices for authentication, such as cryptographic USB keys; 
• Biometric authentication: unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition; 
• Application-based authentication: use of dedicated applications to generate unique authentication codes; 
• Cyber security education: training employees in the best online security practices; 

Relying on partners who are experts in information security, such as ISH, is therefore essential. Contact us to find out more!