FIDO, or Fast IDentity Online, represents a major shift away from traditional password reliance towards a more secure authentication system. The initiative, driven by the FIDO Alliance, seeks to establish a standardized method of verifying identities online that minimizes user burden and enhances security. By utilizing public key cryptography, FIDO eliminates the need for users to remember complex passwords, thus reducing the risks associated with password reuse and phishing attacks.
In the FIDO authentication process, devices generate a unique key pair consisting of a private and a public key. The private key remains securely stored on the user’s device, while the public key is registered with the service provider. During login, the service initiates a challenge that the device signs using the private key, proving the user’s authenticity without exposing the key itself. This design not only fortifies security but also ensures that even in cases of attempted phishing, the private key is never compromised as it stays local to the device.
As the technology evolves into FIDO2 and supports passkeys, users can enjoy seamless logins across multiple devices without entering passwords. This paradigm shift requires service providers to adapt to FIDO standards but promises a future where password inputs become increasingly rare. To prepare, individuals should verify FIDO support for their services and secure their devices appropriately.
👉 Pročitaj original: CIO Magazine
