A user is accessing his personal account by pressing his thumb on the biometric reader next to the virtual login screen with username and password.

Passkeys – Secure Passwordless Authentication and Login Method using Biometics

Passkeys in combination with Biometrics as Innovative Approach to the Classical Authentication Method

Passkeys are an innovative authentication method designed to enhance online security by replacing traditional passwords with a more secure system based on cryptographic keys and supported by the FIDO alliance consortium. Essentially, a passkey consists of two components: a public key and a private key. The public key is stored on the server, while the private key remains securely on the user’s device. Within the authentication process the web application communicates with the user’s Authenticator (e.g. device wallet or Password Manager) through their local browser or app based on the so called WebAuthn interface. Contrary to username and password authentication which can be compromised while transmitted over the Internet, this dual-key approach minimizes the risk of password theft, as only the private key on the user’s local device can unlock access to an account.

The convenience and security offered by biometrics make passkeys an appealing option for both individuals and organizations.

Why Should I use Passkey Technology?

Passwordless Authentication using Biometrics at Engity

One of the most significant advancements in passkey technology is its ability to integrate with biometrics. Biometric authentication is a way to verify identities using physical or behavioral characteristics that cannot be changed such as fingerprint, facial, voice, Iris pattern, signature or palm print recognition. Everything is based on the uniqueness of the characteristics of an individual user. The user authenticates their identity using unique biological traits and is based on the principle “something the user is” instead of remembering complex passwords.
Fast & Scalable Login Method

Biometrics Passwordless Authentication: Common Use Cases

In today’s fast-paced world, easy and fast access is becoming more and more important. At the same time, data security is essential. Biometric authentication makes it possible to combine both requirements and only grants access to the legitimate user.

    Easy access to smartphone applications with biometrics

    More and more online services offer biometric identification with the individual characteristics of fingerprint, facial, Iris, or voice recognition to simplify the user`s journey. Many applications for which security is important, and which use and store personal data, e.g. banking, health insurances, or online storage apps use biometrics to give the user access to the application.
    Woman holding smartphone and unlocking security applications with her biometric fingerprint

    Biometrics in law enforcement and immigration

    There is a steadily increasing number of people traveling by plane. Consequently, the required customs controls increase at the same rate. To best use the limited space of an airport terminal as well as to speed up the process time of an immigration check, more and more governments and authorities introduce self-service biometric terminals to support the human immigration officer.
    Self-service immigration terminals with IRIS, fingerprint scanner and passport scanner within the customs area of an airport.

    Biometrics access systems

    For decades, people used keys to lock buildings or rooms. Consequently, the person who had the key could enter, whether or not they were the rightful owner. The loss of a key or former colleagues still having a copy of the key was often a risk. The introduction of biometric characteristics for accessing areas or buildings reduced this risk as stored biometric features can always easily be deleted.
    Person logs into a biometric access system by fingerprint that hangs on a wall.

    Can Passwordless Passkey Authentication Support Your Use Case with a Fast & Scalable Roll-Out?

    You want to provide your users with a fast and convenient login experience? You consider implementing a passwordless authentication methods based on WebAuthn standard where biometrics is a factor? Let us know your needs, and we will advise you on the best authentication method for your particular use case.
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