The future of passwords

This May, we celebrate World Password Day, highlighting the importance of this topic and understanding what the future holds for passwords in users' daily lives. Passwords have always been the most widely used authentication method, due to their ease of implementation and use. Over time, the way passwords are stored has evolved, bringing greater security to users. However, it remains an authentication factor that can be copied or guessed and used maliciously. Thus, other authentication factors such as biometrics, which are associated with each person's unique characteristics, are more difficult to copy/reproduce by an attacker. When properly implemented, they provide greater ease and security in their use.

With the development of these new authentication methods, the big question is: What will the future of passwords be? Many cybersecurity experts argue that the future is heading towards a passwordless world - a concept called Passwordless. However, it is crucial to understand if this is the safest and most effective path for data, information, and system security, etc.

What are the advantages of a Passwordless world?

1. Ease of use

The simplicity of using biometric methods along with access keys saves time and makes browsing websites and applications more accessible without the need to enter access credentials that can be copied by malicious entities.

2. Security

Since most cyberattacks occur through theft or guessing of passwords, as they are something defined by users, it is important to note that not using passwords in favour of a system that allows access to resources (e.g., online banking) based on asymmetric encryption and secure modules to store these keys will have a positive impact on cybersecurity as it can reduce the number and amount of malicious accesses.

3. Cost reduction

Organisations spend a significant amount of resources on password protection and management. A passwordless world can reduce costs associated with this component.

What are the limitations of a passwordless world?

1. Dependence on emerging technologies

Authentication methods heavily depend on emerging technologies. This dependence may mean that they may not be as widely available or reliable in all contexts, which may create some access barriers for users.

2. Privacy and security risks

The latest authentication methods also present their own security and privacy risks when poorly implemented. For example, they may be vulnerable to spoofing attacks or how biometric data is stored and used.

3. Implementation complexity

Transitioning to a passwordless world requires significant development and implementation efforts from organisations, including integrating new authentication methods and ensuring compliance with security and privacy regulations. Regarding users, there may also be resistance to adopting new authentication methods, so user training is essential to ensure a smoother transition and adoption.

The future of passwords is uncertain, and a passwordless world presents both advantages and significant disadvantages that should be carefully considered. In this sense, eliminating passwords can represent an important step towards improving cybersecurity and simplifying the user experience, but this requires a structured approach to mitigate risks and ensure that everyone can benefit from this technological change.