The FIDO Alliance developed FIDO Authentication standards based on public key cryptography for authentication that is more secure than passwords and SMS OTPs, simpler for consumers to use, and easier for service providers to deploy and manage. FIDO Authentication enables password-only logins to be replaced with secure and fast login experiences across websites and apps.
Enabling a fundamental shift to phishing-resistant authentication
From legacy, knowledge-based credentialing
To modern, possession-based credentialing
Stored on a server
SMS OTP
KBA
Passwords
On-device (never on a server)
Local Biometric / PIN
DocAuth
Multi-device FIDO credentials
What is FIDO2?
FIDO2 enables users to leverage common devices to easily authenticate to online services in both mobile and desktop environments. The FIDO2 specifications are the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Authentication (WebAuthn) specification and FIDO Alliance’s corresponding Client-to-Authenticator Protocol (CTAP).
Benefits of FIDO Authentication
Security
FIDO2 cryptographic login credentials are unique across every website, never leave the user’s device and are never stored on a server. This security model eliminates the risks of phishing, all forms of password theft and replay attacks.
Convenience
Users unlock cryptographic login credentials with simple built-in methods such as fingerprint readers or cameras on their devices, or by leveraging easy-to-use FIDO security keys. Consumers can select the device that best fits their needs.
Privacy
Because FIDO cryptographic keys are unique for each internet site, they cannot be used to track users across sites. Plus, biometric data, when used, never leaves the user’s device.
Scalability
Websites can enable FIDO2 through a simple JavaScript API call that is supported across leading browsers and platforms on billions of devices consumers use every day.
As an expert deeply immersed in the field of cybersecurity and authentication technologies, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge on the subject. My expertise spans a broad range of topics, from traditional password-based security to cutting-edge authentication methods such as those developed by the FIDO Alliance.
The FIDO Alliance has emerged as a key player in addressing the persistent challenges posed by traditional passwords. In response to the password problem, the Alliance has developed FIDO Authentication standards, centered around public key cryptography. This innovative approach not only enhances security but also aims to simplify the user experience and streamline deployment for service providers.
The FIDO Authentication standards propose a shift from legacy, knowledge-based credentialing to modern, possession-based credentialing. This transition involves moving away from traditional password storage on servers, SMS one-time passwords (OTPs), and knowledge-based authentication (KBA). Instead, FIDO Authentication promotes the use of on-device credentials that never leave the user's device, local biometrics or PINs, and multi-device FIDO credentials.
One key component of FIDO Authentication is FIDO2, which facilitates user authentication across both mobile and desktop environments. FIDO2 comprises the Web Authentication (WebAuthn) specification by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the Client-to-Authenticator Protocol (CTAP) developed by the FIDO Alliance.
The benefits of adopting FIDO Authentication, particularly FIDO2, are significant. The security model relies on cryptographic login credentials unique to each website, eliminating the risks associated with phishing, password theft, and replay attacks. Convenience is another advantage, as users can unlock cryptographic login credentials using built-in methods like fingerprint readers, cameras, or FIDO security keys. Importantly, FIDO Authentication prioritizes privacy, with unique cryptographic keys for each site and biometric data, if used, remaining securely stored on the user's device.
Scalability is also a key feature, as websites can implement FIDO2 through a simple JavaScript API call supported across leading browsers and platforms. This widespread compatibility ensures that billions of devices, across various platforms, can seamlessly integrate FIDO Authentication.
In conclusion, the FIDO Alliance's approach to addressing the password problem through FIDO Authentication, particularly FIDO2, represents a significant advancement in security, convenience, privacy, and scalability. The shift from legacy authentication methods to possession-based credentialing marks a crucial step forward in creating a more robust and user-friendly authentication landscape for websites and apps.
FIDO2 keys are at the forefront of passwordless authentication, a technology that enhances security while simultaneously simplifying the user experience. FIDO2 keys are considered phishing-resistant because of how they protect the credentials.
Authenticator Certification Level 2 (L2) evaluates FIDO Authenticator protection against basic, scalable attacks. For L2, the Authenticator is required to conform to a solution included in FIDO Allowed Restricted Operating Environment and Allowed Cryptography lists as part of the Authenticator Security Requirements.
Additionally, FIDO2 does not safeguard against timing vulnerability attacks (an attack that links stored user accounts in vulnerable authenticators). Since FIDO2 relies on a computer or system's authenticators, there is a lack of physical protection.
Just go to the website your key already registered.On the 2-step verification tab or similar tab, delete the device. Two FIDO keys are recommended, one for normal use, the other for backup.
If a hacker wants to tap your cell phone, they can do so by installing (or getting you to install) spyware on your iPhone or Android. And if law enforcement wants to listen in on your calls on any type of phone, all they'll need to do is contact your carrier.
FIDO2 also allows a more convenient and seamless user login experience. Rather than needing to remember the unique password they've created for each online account, users can log in using biometric authentication like fingerprint scanning or facial recognition.
FIDO2 - the YubiKey 5 can hold up to 100 discoverable credentials (AKA hardware-bound passkeys) in its FIDO2 application. FIDO U2F - similar to Yubico OTP, the FIDO U2F application can be registered with an unlimited number of services.
Fido Solutions Inc. is a Canadian mobile network operator owned by Rogers Communications. Since its acquisition by Rogers in 2004, it has operated as a Mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) using the Rogers Wireless network. Fido Solutions Inc.
What's the difference between FIDO2 and FIDO U2F? FIDO2 is an extension of FIDO U2F, they offer the same level of high-security based on public key cryptography. FIDO2 offers expanded authentication options including strong single factor (passwordless), strong two factor, and multi-factor authentication.
The YubiKey Bio Series is built primarily for desktops. FIDO-only protocols: YubiKey Bio - FIDO Edition supports FIDO2/WebAuthn (hardware bound passkey) and FIDO U2F authentication protocols only.
Fortunately, all leading web platforms, including Microsoft Windows, Apple iOS and MacOS, and Android systems, and all major web browsers, including Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Apple Safari, and Mozilla Firefox, support FIDO2. Your identity and access management (IAM) solution must also support FIDO2 authentication.
The most significant advantage of FIDO2 authentication is that it creates a much smaller attack window for cybercriminals. To access your sensitive private information, attackers will need a FIDO2 authenticator, which is physically always by your side in the form of your device or your biometrics.
The Fast Identity Online (FIDO) Alliance developed it to replace the use of legacy known passwords and provide a secure method to authenticate using a physical or embedded key. FIDO2 is mostly known to protect people from man-in-the-middle (MITM), phishing and session hijacking attacks.
Yubikey is a physical authentication device that plugs into a computer or mobile device and uses one-time passwords for authentication. U2F (Universal 2nd Factor) is an open authentication standard developed by the FIDO Alliance, which allows users to securely log into websites and apps with a single tap or click.
With FIDO2, hackers can't easily gain access to this sensitive information through phishing, ransomware, and other common acts of cybertheft. Biometric and FIDO2 keys also help eliminate vulnerabilities in traditional multifactor authentication methods, such as sending one-time passcodes (OTPs) through text messages.
While authenticator apps enhance security, they are not entirely foolproof. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the user's device, such as malware, to steal authentication codes.
Is FIDO Hacker-Proof? FIDO is not infallible. Although passwordless authentication is generally considered to be more secure than traditional password-based logins, biometrics can be spoofed and hardware tokens can be stolen.
Introduction: My name is Lakeisha Bayer VM, I am a brainy, kind, enchanting, healthy, lovely, clean, witty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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