Importance of Two-Factor Authentication in Mobile Apps
Today, most of our daily tasks and responsibilities are done digitally. This includes communicating, banking, and even purchasing groceries or services. These activities require our personal information.
When we provide our information to websites and mobile applications, its developers ensure that these are kept private. However, as this data dangles in the cloud, cyber hacks are at risk.
Recently, there has been a significant increase in hacking incidents, and website for business is the most common target of hackers. Thus, even though developers prioritize cybersecurity during application or website development, it does not suffice.
That’s why most large companies have introduced the Two-Factor Authentication of 2FA.
How Does Two-Factor Authentication in Mobile Apps Work?
There are several varying processes used for two-factor authentication methods. But, these methods rely on the same workflow. The process happens in this manner:
- User logs in to the website or application with their credentials (username and password).
- After the authentication server validates the password, the user becomes eligible for the second factor.
- A unique code is sent to the user’s second-factor device.
- The user confirms their identity by entering the authentication code.
While this is the primary process of two-factor authentication, some developers have different ways to implement it. This is their way to maintain a strong security posture and create an environment where users participate in their digital safety.
This emphasize the importance of security in each online transaction. If you are about to start your mobile application development, here are some reasons you should not be passive about it.
Why Use Two-Factor Authentication in Mobile Apps?
Smartphones offer various two-factor authentication capabilities to enable businesses to employ methods that work best for them. Some devices have biometrics that recognizes facial recognition, fingerprints, voice recognition, or iris scanning.
These businesses use passwordless authentication and rely on biometrics. It is a secure protocol as only the users can authenticate themselves in the software or application. An example of this are bank mobile applications and transactions made through Apple pay.
Meanwhile, some also use SMS or email to send unique codes. These unique codes are provided after the user has logged in to the application or website.
Although the easiest to implement and inexpensive two-factor authentication method is SMS-based, experts suggest not to use it. SMS-based are vulnerable to numerous attacks as mobile phone networks are easily intercepted.
You have to remember that your simple password cannot suffice data protection. There are several social engineering techniques that cybercriminals can use to acquire your password. Some have malicious codes or viruses that tricks you into providing the information of your own will.
Final Thoughts
In today’s digital era, where almost all of us rely on digital purchases, it is important to take caution when sharing personal information on websites or mobile apps. Although two-factor authentication does not entirely absolve the cyberattack issues, it adds an extra roadblock for cybercriminals trying to steal your information. It is better to equip your website or mobile application with two-factor authentication methods than leave yourself vulnerable.
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