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Look for an alternative form of authentication beyond a password? From security questions, to number plate recognition, there are many different ways in which customers and employees can authenticate their identity. Here are a few different forms of authentication that could be worth considering.
Security questions
Security questions were once commonly used as a form of backup authentication for forgotten passwords. They involve answering a personal question such as ‘what was your first car?’ or ‘what is your mother’s maiden name?’. Security questions have become less popular in recent years, because many of them proved easy to guess, making passwords easier to hack. That said, they can still have their uses.
One-time passcodes
Instead of security questions, many companies now send an OTP (one time passcode) to a user via an email or text when resetting a password. OTPs can also be used as a form of multi-factor authentication alongside a password in order to strengthen security. Such passwords can only be used for a certain amount of time, which makes them very difficult to crack.
Fingerprint scanning
Fingerprint scanning was one of the earliest forms of biometric password. For a brief period, many smartphones, door alarms and employee time clocks were operated using a fingerprint scan. Fingerprints have the benefit of being unique to the user, but require specialist hardware to read - in recent years, being largely replaced by facial recognition.
Facial recognition
Facial recognition involves using a camera to match a person’s facial features to a previously recorded photo or video. It is thought to be one of the most popular forms of alternative authentication in the future, and is already widely adopted by many devices and apps. Companies like PrivateID can help you to set up this form of biometric password for your customers or employees.
Voice ID
Being able to authenticate yourself using your voice is thought to also be a popular solution in the future. Already, Voice ID is commonly used as a form of authentication over the phone. By recording your voice, it’s possible to create a voiceprint that can be hard for other people to imitate - however this may need to be re-recorded if your voice alters over time.
Keycards/keyfobs
Many companies use keycards or keyfobs as a form of access control for doors or gates. These can be used as a sole form of authentication or they can be used alongside a passcode. Modern keycards and keyfobs can be remotely activated and deactivated - which can be useful if you lose them and don’t want them to fall into the wrong hands.
Number plate recognition
When it comes to granting access to private parking lots, number plate recognition can be one of the most convenient forms of authentication. This involves installing a camera outside the entrance to read the number plate of every car - whenever an authorised number plate comes into view, this triggers the barrier to open. Number plate recognition can be used as a sole form of authentication, or it can be combined with a passcode or keycard.
With inputs from PIB
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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