During the previous year, the largest amount of cyber intrusions (30%) initiated in a similar manner: a cyber perpetrator utilizing legitimate access credentials. Even more alarming, the X-Force Threat Intelligence Index of 2024 identified that this attack method surged by 71% from the year 2022. Researchers also noted a 266% rise in the use of infostealers to acquire credentials for malicious purposes. Occasionally, relatives of privileged users fall prey to these tactics.
“These changes indicate that malevolent actors have reevaluated credentials as a dependable and favored initial breach vector. As these malevolent actors invest in infostealers to expand their credentials database, enterprises are propelled into a novel defense landscape where identity legitimacy can no longer be assured,” stated the report from X-Force.
Businesses must prioritize access management
The sole method to counteract the misuse of legitimate credentials is to confirm that the user behind the account is indeed the individual to whom the credentials were assigned. This necessitates enterprises to concentrate on access management to validate the legitimacy of every user each time they interact with sensitive information.
Transitioning to mobile authentication
Nevertheless, the typical username and password credentials are commonly exploited in cyber malfeasance. Cybercriminals frequently infiltrate accounts by deciphering passwords via artificial intelligence (AI). Moreover, credentials are commonly peddled on the dark web, facilitating cyber perpetrators to readily utilize legitimate credentials for launching breaches or attacks.
To mitigate this risk and heighten the probability of genuine users obtaining entry, organizations are embracing mobile authentication. Through this style of identity validation, a user must affirm their identity using a mobile device. Once verified, the user receives a distinct digital key tied to their device. Various technologies entail the usage of a QR code, while others incorporate a link. Upon each user access to the system, the device employs the digital key to assure that the rightful individual employs the credentials. This form of authentication can be utilized for physical entry, such as a secure data center in a facility, or for virtual entry, like to a database containing confidential customer details.
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Advantages of mobile authentication
Enterprises embracing mobile authentication often observe the following advantages:
- Decreased exposure: Since users typically have their mobile devices with them, the likelihood of a cybercriminal having access to both the credentials and device is minimal. As users require physical possession of a device, breaching stolen credentials becomes a more challenging feat compared to traditional access control measures.
- Reduced expenses: Mobile access necessitates less administrative tasks, rendering it a cost-effective solution to operate and upkeep. Administrators can add or remove users more effortlessly compared to conventional access management techniques.
- Simplified temporary credential creation: With mobile authentication, administrators can now swiftly and conveniently generate temporary credentials, like for contractors or vendors.
Possible drawbacks of mobile authentication
However, mobile authentication also introduces certain obstacles. Common concerns encompass:
- Personal device prerequisite: Some employees may be hesitant to utilize their personal devices for work purposes. Organizations must tackle this hurdle either by issuing keycards or business devices.
- Functional and charged device mandate: If a user’s device is either devoid of battery or non-operational, they are unable to access imperative applications and systems required for job-related assignments. Organizations should establish an alternative access channel for these scenarios.
The forthcoming era of mobile authentication
With the escalating adoption of this form of authentication in various enterprises, employees and users will gradually acclimate to utilizing their personal devices to log in. Enterprises that integrate this technology can adjust their methodologies and utilization as the technology progresses. This adoption can help organizations diminish the risks associated with breaches involving legitimate credentials, reducing their overall exposure and susceptibility.