Move to scrap password logins

MELBOURNE: Tech giants Google, Microsoft and Apple have backed a push for scrapping password logins to establish a more secure signin process across digital platforms.

The new login standard, developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium, would enable users to sign in to devices and online platforms more seamlessly and securely.

Password laziness and the use of default or weak passwords is recognised by law enforcement agencies as one of the biggest facilitators of organised crime.

The elimination of online passwords altogether could come as early as this year and would significantly reduce the risk of hacking and online identity theft, experts said.

Passwordless logins would enable users to sign in at the press of a button by verifying their fingerprint, face, or a device PIN, which is safer and easier than twofactor authentication. — AAP