Breaking Down the Myths of Passwordless Security Deployment

The days of typing in a password to log into an application, workstation, device, or other protected endpoint will soon be behind us. Why? Because purely password-based systems are proving to be cumbersome, annoying and prone to hacking.

In fact, four of the five top data breaches in 2024 were due to stolen credentials – much due to the fact that passwords are notoriously easy to crack. Organizations utilizing passwords are rife with users experiencing password fatigue and increased cognitive load, meaning fraudsters can deceive victims into sharing credentials. 

Experts predict that more than half of the workforce and over 20% of customer authentication transactions will be passwordless by 2025. While leading providers continually emphasize the benefits of passwordless security, organizations are still hesitant to prioritize its deployment, citing factors like investment and change management as concerns.

With cybercriminals adapting their methods, the time to deploy passwordless security is not later, it is now. Below we will break down the myths and misconceptions surrounding passwordless deployment and provide insight into what implementation truly entails.
 

Key takeaways:    

• Passwordless security enhances user experience and reduces the burden on IT support teams by eliminating cumbersome passwords and offering faster, more convenient methods.  
• Integration into existing infrastructure is possible without requiring a complete overhaul, allowing for phased implementation and minimal disruption.
• Cybercriminals are adapting their methods, making the deployment of passwordless security urgent.

Myth 1: Passwordless Deployment is Only Feasible for Large Enterprises 
 

Fact: Passwordless security is scalable and can be implemented by organizations of all sizes. Small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from passwordless authentication just as much as large enterprises. Plus, regardless of your organization’s size, it only takes one individual getting hacked for the entire enterprise to deal with the consequences. Solutions that prevent such attacks are available at various price points, and many vendors offer tailored packages to meet the specific needs of smaller organizations.

Myth 2: Passwordless Solutions Are Not Compatible with Legacy Systems 
 

Fact: While some legacy systems may pose challenges, many passwordless solutions offer compatibility options. For instance, middleware and integration tools can bridge the gap between modern authentication methods and older systems. Additionally, vendors often provide support and guidance to help organizations navigate compatibility issues, ensuring a successful deployment. At rf IDEAS, we pride ourselves on our partner network relationships and interoperable solutions leveraging our WAVE ID® technology that allow customers to create a result that works for their infrastructure.

Myth 3: Passwordless Authentication is Inconvenient for Users 
 

Fact: Passwordless authentication enhances user experience by eliminating the need to remember passwords. Methods such as passkeys and biometric verification are faster and more convenient than traditional password-based systems. For instance, signing in with a passkey can take significantly less time compared to entering a password and waiting for MFA verification. Additionally, the cost savings associated with productivity are notable when organizations choose to implement passwordless. If 1,000 employees spend 15 seconds typing in passwords 20 times a day, it costs a company $800K per year in lost productivity. Users don’t want to spend more time on passwords and organizations don’t want to pay the price for it either.

Myth 4: Training Employees for Passwordless Security is Time-Consuming and Difficult 
 

Fact: Training for passwordless authentication can be straightforward and efficient when provided with the right tools and support. Many solutions come with user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive training materials. Organizations can leverage these resources to educate employees quickly and effectively. Moreover, the intuitive nature of passwordless methods, like mobile authentication through digital wallets, often results in faster adoption and less resistance from users. 

Myth 5: Passwordless Authentication Security Won’t Make an Impact for my IT Team 
 

Fact: Passwordless authentication can actually reduce the burden on IT support teams. It is estimated that between 30% and 50% of all IT help desk calls are for password resets, showcasing that passwords are truly affecting multiple levels of an organization. By eliminating password-related issues, such as resets and account lockouts, IT departments can focus on more strategic tasks. Additionally, the simplicity and reliability of passwordless methods often result in fewer user errors and support requests.

Myth 6: Passwordless Security Requires a Complete Overhaul of Existing Systems 
 

Fact: While the migration will require effort, passwordless authentication can be integrated into existing infrastructure without requiring a complete overhaul. Many solutions are designed to work alongside current systems, allowing for a phased implementation. Organizations can start with specific applications or user groups and gradually expand the deployment. This approach minimizes disruption and allows for smoother transitions. With 51% of individuals sharing passwords with colleagues to access business accounts, it’s vital that IT leaders set a standard that mitigates risk more effectively, even if it involves a multi-pronged approach. 

The Time for Passwordless Security is Now 
 

Passwordless security deployment offers numerous benefits, from enhanced security to improved user experience. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of how passwordless authentication can better position organizations to protect their digital assets, private information and their users. 

Embrace the future of digital security with confidence and take the first step towards a passwordless world. Discover how WAVE ID® readers can be part of your passwordless security and reach out to rf IDEAS today to start the conversation!