Google plans to deploy significant development in its authentication and security within its platforms. The internet giant revealed a couple of days ago, on May 5, 2022, that it would provide support for a simplified login on its leading platforms-Android platform and Google Chrome.
Google explained that users continue to lose control over their accounts due to high-security threats like scams, phishing, and bad password hygiene. That has also led to the deployment of more innovative feats like Google password manager and Two-Step Authentication. But now, the company aims to introduce a new system of passwordless security to solve all password challenges.
In honor of World Password Day, Google stated that it plans to introduce this feature for FIDO Log-in protocols in both Android devices and the Chrome web browser. This upcoming innovation is called FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and has been around for a while. FIDO makes use of public-key cryptography methods to offer stricter security.
After registering on an online platform, the user’s device will create a new cryptographic key pair. The device then stores the private key and records the public key on the online platform. Finally, validation is carried out by the user’s device, noting that they’re holding the private key. After that, the user can only use the private key by unlocking their mobile device locally. That uses the user’s smartphone security to grant access to the platform.
In addition, Google stated that users would still gain access to their accounts even after losing their smartphone devices. The company explained that the passwords would be stored over the cloud and easily synchronized on their new smartphones. Thus, enabling users more accessibility and control over their privacy and online security.
Other leading firms to join Google soon
Apart from Google, other leading tech firms like Apple and Microsoft have shown interest in implementing the FIDO protocol on their platforms. Recognizing the vast possibilities of the FIDO standard, they have hinted at implementing it on iOS, macOS, and Safari browsers (for Apple) and the Microsoft OS and Edge browser.
The FIDO Alliance, the creator of the FIDO standards, announced on their blog that Google, Apple, and Microsoft had come together to provide a more secure web. The W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) and the FIDO Alliance will deploy this passwordless login.
According to the Alliance, passwords and two-factor verifications are okay; they’re not adequate. Of course, both methods provide internet privacy to some extent. But there’s still a need for a high, easier, and more portable way of providing security.
Also, the FIDO Alliance noted that these firms are already compatible with the FIDO Alliance protocols to offer passwordless logins to several billions of high-tech devices. In addition, passwordless authentication can be implemented on both smart devices and web browsers. Making it highly versatile.
Moreover, the Alliance disclosed that this innovation would cut across billions of devices powered by Google, Apple, and Microsoft. It also mentioned that this was proof of the collaborative efforts across the tech industry. Thus, a green flag for innovations.
