Passwords can be one of the weakest links in online security, and Microsoftnow has ditched themaltogether.
Weve used passwords for so long that it seems impossible to move.
After all, how do you sign on if you cant jot down a passcode?
Towifqu barbhuiya / Unsplash
Dont hold back, Timtell us what you really think.
Its a (preferably) unique string of characters that only you know.
The problem is that they can be stolen or guessed.
Microsoft
People tend to use weak passwords so they can remember them.
The user only needs to remember one passwordthe one that unlocks the appso it can be a good one.
These apps also discourage password reuse, which is another no-no.
“Re-using passwords is one of the worst things you could do.
Youve probably already used a password alternative.
Your phone may let you unlock its built-in password-storage keychain with a fingerprint, for example.
Often, these are used in conjunction with a password.
Passwords Advantages
There are still advantages to passwords.
This is based on the Fifth Amendment, which states that each person has the right against self-incrimination.”
NordpasssPatricia Cerniauskaitetold Lifewire via email.
“Even if the police have a warrant, they cant compel the person to reveal their password.”
Re-using passwords is one of the worst things it’s possible for you to do.
That counts for your online accounts, but also for the passcode you use to unlock your phone.
But when it comes to fingerprints and face scans, everything changes.
“Things are different when it comes to biometric data,” says Cerniauskaite.
Somewhat counterintuitively, biometrics is a particularly bad way to authenticate yourself.
They may be unique to you, but you are stuck with them.
If your password or credit card details are stolen, you could change them.
If your biometrics are compromised, then you cannot.
Passwordless Future?
Passwords are a pain, but the alternatives arent much better.
They may be more or less secure, but none of these methods is particularly convenient.
Microsofts effort is still laudable.
One of the most significant barriers to password alternatives is momentum.
Were just so used to them.
If nothing else, Microsoft is giving us a taste of the future.
