Passwords are becoming obsolete

These day’s for most of us, the number and complexity of passwords we are now forced to create, and the regularity with which they should be changed is too much for most of us to handle. As a result we resort to writing passwords down, saving them in unencrypted files, or using the same password for everything. The more technically aware use a password manager such as Steganos or Last Pass, but even these require passwords to login.

The Internet of Things is focused on connecting more and more devices to each other that generate, store and share unprecedented amounts of sensitive information. The data on all these devices requires more passwords – which creates more security risks.

Ultimately to combat the security risks, passwords are becoming obsolete. Because of this, the way people access smartphones, personal computers and many other password-protected technologies will change. The likely scenario is a decline in password use over the next few years as alternative methods, like biometrics and device authentication arrive to supplement or replace them. Biometrics includes technology such as fingerprint scanners, palm print readers, iris scanners, and finger vein and face recognition. Authentication covers techniques such as two-factor authentication, device encryption and multiple authenticators.

With the unprecedented and unstoppable proliferation of devices, data and connectivity, the move away from passwords is well underway and accelerating. People want more privacy and security than passwords are giving them and alternatives will continue to grow in favour as they become more widely used in the digital world.