As we are increasingly vulnerable to online crime, a strong password used for a website is no longer considered a sufficient security measure, especially for those handling sensitive data. Even if we use special characters and upper and lower case in the account creation process, we can’t be sure that it won’t be hacked. Entering the same string of characters every time you log in will leave a trace in the network. So it could be that even the best password in the world could be cracked by a hacker who has access to all our information—both personal and work-related. However, there is a simple solution that will allow you to secure your login process against potential hacker attacks: U2F security keys.
What Is a U2F Security Key and How Do You Use It?
Today, many websites offer their users the possibility of two-step verification when logging into individual servers. This type of authentication requires two actions: first, entering the address and password, then confirming authentication using an external token. The token can be an SMS password sent to your phone number, which is not a very secure option. A better alternative is the U2F or security key. The use of security keys could be useful to everyone in everyday life, although it is primarily recommended for professional groups that are particularly vulnerable to online attacks (such as IT professionals, journalists, activists, politicians, etc.). Two-step verification combined with the use of security keys could help us protect ourselves effectively against phishing attacks and hackers.
Most of us associate the name “U2F security key” with NASA’s complex space technology used to explore the universe. The enigmatic name, however, is not entirely appropriate for the item that fits easily in a pocket. The security key looks like a USB flash drive. It’s a small device that effectively protects you against online attacks. Initially developed by Google and Yubico, with a contribution from NXP Semiconductors, the standard is now hosted by the FIDO Alliance alone.
U2F keys are easy to use and won’t affect your daily life in any way. There’s even a chance that the security key will speed things up. Thanks to this little device your employees don’t have to enter long and complicated passwords every time they log in. They’re generated automatically when you press the button on the token. It couldn’t be easier and more secure. There are security keys on the market that support various communication and authentication methods. We can buy tokens that work with laptops or mobile devices (some of them can easily be connected to our smartphones using NFC), and some security keys work offline.
Main Advantages of Using U2F Keys
Many of the advantages of using U2F keys are obvious and come to mind automatically, but some of them are worth highlighting and discussing separately.
Strong security is the most important of all the advantages. Using it in combination with two-step verification will offer strong protection against phishing, session interception, or data theft. In addition, the key will not work when a fake login page is accessed.
Easy to use. U2F keys are very small, so we can always have them with us. Using them won’t be a problem; just plug it in with a USB port into your computer, and generate a password by pressing the button. These keys don’t store any data, so if an employee loses a key, nothing will happen.
Maintains privacy. With these keys, you have full control of your online identity.
Plenty of choices. There are various types of keys available on the market, which allows you to choose one that’s fully adapted to your needs. They are designed to support many authentication and communication methods as well, e.g. the key can be inserted into a USB or NFC.
Budget-friendly. The security of data is priceless. However, buying a U2F key won’t empty your wallet. Yubikey, the most popular key on the market, is available for $45. Google Titan Security Key is even less expensive, starting from $30.
Conclusion
Designed to provide strong authentication for users on the web while preserving the user’s privacy, U2F security keys could be an ideal choice for any company that wants to implement a robust policy for handling sensitive data. They are easy to use, there are plenty of choices on the market, and they are budget-friendly—among many other significant benefits.
