The concept of continuous authentication refers to the ongoing process of verifying the identity of users throughout their digital interactions, rather than relying solely on a once-off authentication process. By continuously monitoring user behavior, biometric factors, and contextual data, continuous authentication systems can provide advanced security and protect against unauthorized access throughout a banking payment or transaction.
What do Continuous Authentication principles emphasize?
The main premise behind continuous authentication is that banking security systems cannot assume that user identities remain constant throughout a session. This means that a single login or authentication event is not sufficient to guarantee ongoing security. Instead, continuous authentication emphasizes the need to constantly validate user identities and the level of risk associated with each activity. By evaluating various factors, such as a consumer’s typing patterns, mouse movements, device usage patterns, and geolocation, continuous authentication tools can detect unusual or suspicious behavior and take proactive measures to mitigate potential fraud threats.
What are the main types of Continuous Authentication security solutions?
Continuous authentication solutions typically involve a combination of components which could include multi-factor authentication and real-time risk engines.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) covers more than two factors of authentication and may include biometrics in addition to the traditional username and password. This creates a layered approach or an extra level of security for the continuous authentication process.
Continuous authentication systems can also employ risk-based analysis to evaluate user activities in real-time. By assigning risk scores based on various parameters, such as location, device, network, and behavioral anomalies, these solutions can dynamically adjust the level of authentication required.
These solutions could also include behavioral biometrics, which analyzes user behavior patterns, such as typing speed, typing rhythm, mouse movements, and touchscreen interactions. By comparing these patterns against established profiles, any deviation can trigger authentication challenges or alerts.
Contextual authentication can also play a key role in continuous authentication, examining contextual information, such as location, time, and network characteristics, to assess the authenticity of user interactions.