Beyond Passwords: Seeking Authentication Options

The sharp rise in data breaches has prompted organizations to look for better ways to secure their data. The challenge is that not many of them have significant experience or expertise with new authentication technologies. A survey of 308 cyber-security professionals by Wakefield Research on behalf of SecureAuth Corp., a provider of multi-factor authentication and single sign-on software, shows general agreement that traditional passwords don't provide the same level of security they once did. Almost a quarter surveyed admitted their organizations suffered multiple breaches in the last year. The good news is that IT security budgets are expected to be higher in the coming year. Many firms will need help from solution providers with IT security expertise, not only in determining what biometric and two-factor authentication technologies to implement as an alternative to passwords, but also in implementing them in a way that won't compromise the end-user experience. After all, securing something in a way that actually will be used by people requires a rare mix of skill and talent that most organizations today could leverage through IT security experts in the channel.