Passwordless MFA : Better Security With Less User Friction

Passwords are not only a headache for most users, but they’re not as secure as organizations would like to think.

Reliance on passwords puts users in charge of security, but they are only human, after all. People make mistakes like: 

• Setting weak passwords
• Sharing them with colleagues
• Forgetting to log out
• Falling prey to phishing and other scams.
  
  

Since 81% of hacker-caused breaches are linked to weak or stolen passwords, businesses need better protection.

That’s why more organizations are adopting passwordless multi-factor authentication (MFA). It improves security and is easier to use and manage.

How Authentication Is Changing 

Emerging trends in cybersecurity point to significant changes in authentication. AI will have a big impact on risk assessments. The technology will be able to complete more in-depth analyses of user behavior. It can then dynamically adjust security measures to offer even greater protection.

Blockchain will also change the authentication landscape. Users will be able to control their own digital identities. 

Quantum computing is moving closer to being able to crack traditional algorithms. In response, cryptographers are working on developing quantum-resistant authentication.

Why Passwords Are Obsolete

As the need for passwords grew, users became weary of tracking and resetting them. Attacks also became more sophisticated. As a result, frustrated users choose weak passwords and reuse them across platforms. 

Even strong passwords don’t provide protection against phishing attacks. Cybercriminals can still deceive users into revealing their credentials. The problem is compounded by the fact that AI-written phishing attempts are becoming harder to detect. 

Additionally, passwords are expensive to manage. They’re even more costly when they fail to protect your data. In some sectors like manufacturing, employees don’t log in often enough to remember passwords. 

Password resets cost IT teams time and resources. Weak passwords often result in breaches. These cost organizations a significant amount of money each year. Phishing and compromised credentials cost companies an average of more than $4.8 million per breach. 

Should Your Company Implement Passwordless MFA? 

Fortunately, organizations can choose to bypass passwords with new tools like passwordless MFA. The method eliminates the need for a traditional password and also uses multiple forms of authentication. This can include using two or more authentication factors like:  

• Something you have: A smartphone, security key, or RFID badge
• Something you are: Biometric data like facial recognition or fingerprints
• Something you know: A PIN or security question

Eliminating passwords reduces user friction. Employees are less likely to forget their devices, and they always have their biometrics at the ready. It also increases security by significantly reducing hackers’ attack surface. 

Deskless Worker Use Case

Employees frequently forget passwords and lose badges. These tendencies cause frequent delays and productivity issues. Managers must correct timesheets and other data when employees forget to log out. 

When you upgrade from traditional passwords to passwordless MFA, factory and warehouse employees can simply scan their faces to clock in. It can also log them into necessary tools. The workers and company see benefits like: 

• Faster login times
• Increased productivity
• No worry about forgotten badges or passwords
• Reduced risk from sharing credentials 
• No more buddy clocking or forgetting to log out

Starting their shifts is generally an easier and more pleasant experience for employees. 

How Passwordless MFA and Conditional Access Work

Passwordless MFA uses devices and methods you already have/are/know. In contrast to traditional passwords, this makes it less likely you’ll lose or forget them.

• Device-based authentication. Users authenticate through devices they already possess, such as smartphones or security keys.
• Biometric verification. Scanning a face or fingerprint adds a second layer of security.
• Contextual awareness. Dynamic risk assessment tools analyze data, such as location or device behavior, to spot anomalies.

Passwordless MFA also allows administrators to set conditions for accessing systems and data. Conditional access uses a combination of real-time factors. These can include user behavior, location, identity, and device security standards. 

Key Benefits of Passwordless MFA

Passwordless MFA does more than simply eliminate password resets and hinder cyberattackers. The top advantages include: 

• Enhanced security. Minimize the risk of falling victim to phishing, brute force, and credential-stuffing attacks. 
• Better user experience. Enjoy faster and more intuitive authentication processes, reducing frustration and increasing productivity.
• Cost savings. Save on IT help desk expenses by eliminating password-related issues. 
• Scalability. Use a passwordless solution in any industry for all your users, across locations.
  

How Passwordless MFA Makes Work Easier

Passwordless MFA improves efficiency and employee experience for deskless and frontline workers. Factory floor staff, warehouse personnel, and field technicians often struggle with password challenges. They often share workstations and need to frequently log in to critical tools. However, passwordless MFA allows for: 

• Easy authentication. Workers can authenticate quickly using RFID badges, biometric scans, or mobile devices. 
• Enhanced security. Only authorized personnel can gain access to shared workstations. 
• Intuitive use for everyone. Even non-tech-savvy workers can easily access systems. There’s no need for extensive training or complex passwords.
• Continuous workflow. Minimize downtown by eliminating forgotten passwords and locked accounts. 

Examples of advantages in specific sectors include:

• Manufacturing. Streamline workflows and minimize downtime. Employees can use RFID badges or facial recognition to access machines and systems. 
• Healthcare. Ensure HIPAA compliance and quick data access. Clinicians can securely log into patient management systems using biometrics.
• Retail. Simplify employee logins to reduce password hassles that frustrate employees and cause delays for customers. Passwordless MFA also strengthens the security of customer and store data. 
  

A Day in the Life of a Worker with OLOID

Morning Shift Start

At 7 a.m., Rajesh, a factory worker at a manufacturing plant, arrives for his shift. Instead of queuing up to swipe an ID badge or enter a PIN, he simply stands in front of an OLOID-enabled time clock. Within one second, the facial recognition system authenticates him, logging his arrival securely and accurately.

Seamless Machine Access

Rajesh’s work requires the use of specialized machinery. Instead of remembering multiple passwords or relying on a physical key, he taps his RFID badge or scans his face. The OLOID system grants him instant access, ensuring only authorized personnel can operate the equipment. This improves both productivity and safety.

Health and Safety Compliance

Before accessing restricted areas, the system prompts a quick wellness check that is integrated with Rajesh's clock-in data. It verifies his vaccination status and ensures compliance with health protocols, safeguarding both him and his coworkers.

Break-Time Efficiency

Rajesh takes a lunch break for 30 minutes. When he returns,OLOID allows him to clock back in seamlessly using the same facial recognition system. This reduces delays and ensures his time is tracked accurately.

Shift Change

At the end of his shift, Rajesh clocks out in seconds. With OLOID’s automated system, payroll is calculated without errors or buddy punching. For the HR team, this reduces manual verification efforts and ensures compliance with labor regulations.

Impact

By using OLOID throughout his day, Rajesh experiences:

• Faster authentication, saving up to 5 minutes each shift
• Improved security by providing access to only authorized workers
• Better workflow with no interruptions from lost badges or forgotten passwords
• A safer workplace, with health assurance that automates compliance

For Rajesh and his employer, OLOID transforms the workday into a smoother, more efficient, and secure experience.

Case Study: Transforming Authentication for Frontline Workers

A global manufacturing company recently implemented Oloid’s Passwordless MFA across its facilities. They wanted to solve the challenges faced by their frontline workers. By replacing traditional passwords with RFID badges and facial recognition, the company was able to achieve:

• 30% higher productivity. Workers no longer waste time recovering or resetting passwords.
• Improved security. The new solution eliminated password sharing to reduce unauthorized access attempts by 50%.
• Smooth integration. The company deployed the system across 15 facilities worldwide with minimal disruption.

This transformation not only enhanced security and productivity but also boosted worker satisfaction. 

Meet Global Compliance Standards with Passwordless MFA

Cybersecurity is essential in every industry. However, breaches and lower compliance can be more damaging and costly in some. 

Passwordless MFA ensures compliance with security regulations in industries like finance and healthcare 

Passwordless MFA meets HIPAA’s stringent security requirements. The tool protects sensitive patient information while ensuring minimal disruption to healthcare workflows. 

For example, healthcare providers may need to use IoT (internet of things) devices that transmit patient data. This can require them to authenticate dozens of times a day. A passwordless MFA solution saves time while still maintaining compliance. 

The solution can also help address the issue of losing track of mobile medical devices and associated patient data. By knowing who last authenticated an instrument, you improve accountability. 

Organizations also need to meet data protection requirements based on data location. For example, the European Union enforces GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). It is designed to eliminate stored passwords and make it easier to report breaches. These regulations reduce the risk of breaches. Similarly, CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) provides protection and transparency for California users. 

Overcoming Challenges in Implementation

Like any new tool implementation, passwordless MFA can pose challenges. These are some ways to make the transition easier. 

• Ensure device compatibility. Check in advance of the implementation to make sure employees have compatible devices.
• Address privacy concerns. Employees may worry about how biometric data is stored and used. It’s important to answer questions and concerns in advance.
• Calculate costs. Decision-makers may be concerned about upfront investments in hardware and software. Determine in advance what the long-term savings will be. 
• Prepare users. Employees may not like a change in their workflows even if it’s simpler. Educating users on the benefits and uses can speed up adoption. 

The Future Is Passwordless

Cyberattacks are becoming more common and more sophisticated. Organizations need strategies and tools in place to protect company and user data. Passwordless MFA merges security and usability, making it a sensible next step for organizations. 

Ready to forget about passwords for good? Reach out to one of our authentication experts today. 

FAQs

Q: How easy is passwordless MFA to implement? 

A: Overall, implementations are becoming easier. Implementations vary in complexity depending on your organization. Your infrastructure, tools, and chosen solution are all factors. 

Q: How does passwordless MFA support zero trust architecture (ZTA)?

A: Passwordless MFA eliminates passwords, which are the weakest link in traditional cybersecurity. In ZTA, every request must be authenticated and authorized before granting access.

Q: How does passwordless MFA integrate with existing identity and access management (IAM) systems?

A: Passwordless MFA easily integrates seamlessly with existing IAM systems. Most IAM systems support passwordless authentication options. Administrators can set up rules to apply passwordless MFA to all users or subgroups. 

Q: What encryption standards are used in passwordless MFA solutions?

A: Passwordless MFA solutions may use a variety of encryption standards. Key standards include both public key and private key cryptography based on FIDO2 (Fast IDentity Online 2). 

Q: How does passwordless MFA handle authentication on shared devices?

A: Passwordless MFA typically uses a combination of device and biometric authentication methods. Each login requires a simple user action to enable access but also protect the data of other users.