Over Half Surveyed Support Passwordless Security as Passwords Evolve, Reveals Black Hat USA Study
A recent survey conducted by privileged access management (PAM) firm Delinea at the Black Hat USA security conference has revealed that over half of the respondents believe in the viability of passwordless security solutions. This remarkable finding showcases the growing acceptance and support for a passwordless future.
The survey found that 54% of those surveyed viewed passwordless solutions as a capable alternative for securing their digital accounts. In addition, one-fifth of respondents already utilized passkeys instead of or alongside traditional passwords, indicating a willingness to embrace a new era of authentication methods.
Passwords have long been a vulnerable aspect of digital security, susceptible to leaks and cracking. It’s no wonder that 79% of participants believed passwords were either evolving or on their way out entirely. To add an extra layer of protection, 73% of respondents secured their passwords with multi-factor authentication (MFA), recognizing the need to mitigate the risks associated with password-based security.
Interestingly, the survey also revealed that 52% of individuals used a password manager, while 34% relied on a PAM solution to securely store their credentials. It is evident that concerns about protecting passwords are well-founded, as an overwhelming 75% of respondents acknowledged that social engineering attacks and stolen credentials were the fastest path to network breaches.
The evolving landscape of cyber threats has intensified the urgency for more robust security measures. Alarmingly, only 12% of respondents believed that organizations were effectively countering cyber threats from both criminal entities and nation-states. Heightened concerns regarding the potential threat posed by artificial intelligence (AI) were also evident, with 34% unsure of its impact, 22% believing it had already taken over, and only 11% asserting that it would never pose a threat.
Recognizing the shortcomings and vulnerabilities of passwords, major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft have shown support for passkey-based authentication solutions. While their adoption is still limited, platforms such as eBay, PayPal, and BestBuy have implemented passkeys to enhance security. Recently, WhatsApp hinted at its future support for passkeys with a new beta version of its encrypted messaging application. However, experts caution that the complete elimination of passwords is still far off.
As the threat landscape evolves, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to prioritize stronger security measures. Passwordless solutions, supported by a majority of survey respondents, offer a promising alternative to traditional password-based security. As technology continues to advance, it is essential for all stakeholders to remain proactive in adopting more secure authentication methods to safeguard against cyber threats.
In conclusion, the survey conducted at the Black Hat USA security conference highlights the growing support for passwordless security solutions. With over half of the respondents embracing passkeys and affirming the need to move away from traditional passwords, the survey sheds light on the evolving landscape of digital security. As cyber threats persist and technology advances, it becomes imperative for individuals and organizations to adopt robust and secure authentication methods. By prioritizing passwordless solutions and leveraging multi-factor authentication, we can take significant strides towards bolstering digital security and mitigating the risks associated with traditional passwords.
