Cyberattacks and data breaches pose significant risks to exposed companies and individuals worldwide. Adopting a new cybersecurity solution like biometric authentication can provide peace of mind to users with improved functions and security features.
Biometric authentication is a step toward improving cybersecurity for everyone using the technology. Companies from all industries, private individuals and government institutions can protect their data and sensitive information using biometric authentication technology. Here are several types in use today.
Zero-trust architecture dictates that no user or device should be automatically trusted when they enter a secure system or network. The simple premise of never trusting an entity outright helps reduce the chances of threat actors stealing valuable private information and data. Industries worldwide see this cybersecurity technology's potential so much that it is expected to grow into a $60 billion industry by 2027.
Biometric authentication is a logical solution to improving zero-trust principles by requiring users and devices to verify their identity constantly. Biometrics technology is evolving and benefits individuals and organizations in today's digital age. Here are several of those plusses.
A good user experience (UX) design aims to make processes as frictionless as possible for users, whether for apps, interfaces or product design. UX also extends to cybersecurity technology. Biometric authentication makes it easier for users to log into their accounts and work systems without remembering passwords and security keys. Biometrics can help people prioritize cybersecurity by making the authentication process seamless, convenient and practical.
Threat actors always seek access to systems and networks by compromising traditional user credentials like passwords. A 2023 Verizon report found that almost 75% of data breaches involved human error, misuse, social engineering attacks and stolen credentials. Biometric authentication technology aims to move away from passwords to strengthen cybersecurity across industries.
Biometric authentication technology is challenging to fool, even for highly skilled threat actors. Unlike passwords and security keys that can be stolen, unique facial features, fingerprints, eye patterns and voice qualities are nearly impossible to fake. Biometric authentication adds another layer to cybersecurity that helps prevent malicious third parties from accessing secure systems.
Biometric authentication is a scalable cybersecurity solution for companies across many industries. Every mobile app, software program and security system can incorporate biometrics to improve user identity verification. Some popular applications of biometric authentication include the following:
Biometric authentication is a sizable investment for companies, especially concerning infrastructure and equipment. However, new technologies provide opportunities for more cost-effective cybersecurity solutions like software capable of verifying biometric data.
Organizations can use cameras and scanners from existing devices with biometric software to deploy a large-scale cybersecurity solution for employee use. In addition, the cost of adopting biometric security is still significantly lower than the average data breach cost of $4.45 million per incident.
Biometric authentication has undeniable benefits in the cybersecurity world. Companies must invest in reliable technology to safeguard their business and clients' interests, and biometrics is an ideal solution.