Streaming Services Seek Stronger Identity Authentication

Identity Authentication

The spread of COVID-19 has dramatically affected the world, primarily how things operate. Many businesses, particularly the ones that were not deemed essential, had to close temporarily due to government mandates. One of the most apparent changes was the increase in video and audio streaming platform usage. The gaming industry has also noticed an increase in its user base.

This happened due to the limited operations and capacity of cinemas, theaters, casinos, and gaming arcades during the pandemic. Although the increase in users benefits businesses, it also poses a security risk for companies and consumers.

The tech industry developed better and more secure ID verification to resolve this. Since passwords have become so unreliable in keeping data safe, tech companies created the MFA or multi-factor authentication solution. This verification method requires a user to present two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate their identity.

The MFA protocol supports making passwords more robust. But even with the MFA’s support, these outdated verification methods are not enough to secure data. It prompted tech developers to formulate another verification system – the passwordless login.

The passwordless MFA provides a powerful layered defense against unauthorized logins. This identity verification method also enables users to confirm their identity seamlessly and more efficiently on online platforms. Unlike the outdated version of MFA that needs one-time passwords or verification codes,  passwordless MFA permits users to enter sites without the hassle. With this new authentication process, users can gain access as long as they present other login credentials, such as their biometrics.

Through biometric technology, end users can log into their accounts using physical characteristics, such as fingerprint and face ID. With biometrics, consumers can verify their identity and prove that they are the actual owner of an account. Compared to passwords, biometric authentication is deemed more secure and reliable in keeping important information safe.

In addition, solutions like authID MFA are FIDO 2.0 compliant. It uses a strong combination of authentication factors like cryptographic keys and biometrics. This verification method is considered the future of secure authentication.

However, some digital entertainment companies continue relying on conventional authentication methods, which place their businesses at risk for cybercrimes. If they want to protect their system, streaming providers must quit depending on outdated verification protocols and deploy stronger security measures. They must make sure that only legitimate users can access their services.

Even though the effects of COVID-19 are seemingly dying down, and people are now learning how to live in the new normal, the rise of streaming services remains. Thus, not adopting new verification methods could mean putting the business and the customers’ data at risk.

Companies must remain vigilant because criminals will continue trying to breach and steal login credentials, no matter how much they attempt to secure their systems. Fraudsters will use every stolen data to carry on with their illicit activities, which can create alarming consequences for digital entertainment providers.

The increase in streaming service users is enough reason to establish stronger identity authentication. More information about this can be found in this article by authID.