The tediousness of accessing various platforms through login processes
In the digital age, the process of logging into apps or websites has become more complex due to the growing need for enhanced security measures. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), password complexity requirements, and biometric verification are now common features aimed at strengthening security against unauthorised access and attacks like phishing or brute forcing [2][3][4].
This complexity, while essential for security, introduces additional steps and friction for users. Key reasons for this include security enhancements, mobile device limitations, and cross-platform inconsistencies [2][3]. To streamline login processes given these burdens, various measures are being taken.
Adoption of Passkeys and Passwordless Authentication is one such measure. Replacing traditional passwords with cryptographic passkeys or biometric methods reduces steps and improves security, while avoiding the pitfalls of password entry and management [4]. Progressive or Optional MFA Enrollment is another strategy, where systems prompt users gradually over time, balancing security with user convenience and reducing drop-off due to frustration [4].
Improved UX Design also plays a crucial role in reducing user friction. Providing clear instructions, multiple options for authentication methods, accessibility accommodations, and better session persistence helps reduce cognitive load and context loss [2][4]. Real-Time Behavior Modeling, where advanced systems use models of user behavior to authenticate seamlessly in the background, is another innovative approach [1].
However, these advancements face challenges. For instance, a stolen passkey from a compromised password manager would bypass the need for both passwords and MFA/2FA or SMS or email assisted authentication [6]. The concept of 'Zero Trust', which assumes that users are malicious until proven otherwise, requires a plethora of authentication steps like biometrics, verification codes, CAPTCHAs, email confirmations, and other identity checks [7].
Gaming accounts, in particular, are a lucrative target for account thieves. The Epic Games Store, for example, does not integrate with password managers, making the login process more cumbersome [8]. Web or app logins that promise to remember your details can be irregular and depend on browser cookies, which can go away due to various reasons [9].
Despite these challenges, the goal remains to make authentication smoother and more intuitive without compromising safety. As Mino Kim, founder at CareerSimulator, states, the friction in the login process is there to try and make the internet safer [5]. Roger Grimes, a data-driven defense evangelist at cybersecurity firm KnowBe4, agrees, stating that the growing attacks focused on authentication have forced every website to implement more login authentication checks [10].
In essence, ongoing innovations like passwordless technologies, flexible MFA strategies, and smarter design aim to reduce user friction and make authentication smoother and more intuitive, without compromising safety [1][2][4].
References: 1. [Link to Reference 1] 2. [Link to Reference 2] 3. [Link to Reference 3] 4. [Link to Reference 4] 5. [Link to Reference 5] 6. [Link to Reference 6] 7. [Link to Reference 7] 8. [Link to Reference 8] 9. [Link to Reference 9] 10. [Link to Reference 10]
- The implementation of Passkeys and Passwordless Authentication, while reducing steps and improving security, aims to streamline login processes and bypass password entry pitfalls.
- The Epic Games Store, lacking integration with password managers, introduces additional complexity to the login process, making gaming accounts a lucrative target for account thieves.
- Real-Time Behavior Modeling, an innovative approach to authentication, uses advanced systems to authenticate seamlessly in the background, but raises concerns about bypassing traditional authentication methods.
- As cybersecurity threats become more prevalent, the gaming industry, like any other, must adapt and implement more sophisticated authentication methods to combat account theft and unauthorized access.
