Never Trust, Always Verify
Biometric verification is essential to ensure that systems and data are only accessed by those with the correct credentials. Vulnerabilities associated with more traditional forms of identity verification can be exploited by hackers. Authentication systems requiring the use of fingerprint, voice or retina scans provide the assurance that is necessary to protect sensitive business data [1].
How biometric verification can be a vital business asset
Implementing a zero-trust architecture where individual access to data and information is applied through a biometric access control system can improve staff and employee confidence. Accidental data breaches will be avoided, and staff will not need to guard their PIN codes, passwords and ID cards.
Data will only be accessible by those who are cleared to view it, and this permission will be reviewed regularly to ensure that the need remains. When an employee moves on, their authentication credentials will be automatically updated, revoking their need to access information pertinent to a previous role.
By implementing a biometric access control system in this manner, the financial and reputational status of a business can be effectively protected. 36% of organizations in the US [2] already use a zero-trust security framework, and it is anticipated that the need to employ such methods of security will continue to grow in the face of greater uptake of cloud computing, AI technology and the Internet of Things.
Implementing a biometric access control system
The motto of a zero-trust security framework is, “never trust, always verify”. This motto reminds us of the need to protect business data and assets against all tangible threats, including employees of the organization, who may inadvertently or intentionally disclose sensitive information.
While ID cards can be lost, mislaid or stolen, those with embedded biometric controls will continue to prevent access to unauthorized individuals and can be remotely disabled if necessary. Passwords and PIN codes are frequently written down and can be accidentally disclosed to individuals without a need for access, rendering them insufficient to protect sensitive data and assets.
A biometric system of access control determines exactly the level, time and type of access for which every specific individual is authenticated and requires that they verify their identity at every entry attempt.
Developing a zero-trust network
Businesses operating in the digital environment would be wise to employ the “never trust, always verify” motto and embed the most secure security protocols that are available to them.
Given the current cybersecurity landscape and the costs associated with security breaches, the zero-trust approach is both practical and viable. It explains the projected growth of the global digital identity solutions market, expected to reach $70.7 billion by 2027, up from $27.9 billion in 2022 [3]. This highlights the increasing recognition of robust digital identity solutions in protecting sensitive information and mitigating cyber risks.
Investing in a zero-trust model with biometric smart cards for access control is pivotal in developing a rigorous security system that will protect against unauthorized access.
Resources:
[1] IDEX provided material
[2] https://www.scmagazine.com/esummit/zero-trust-zeroing-in-on-your-strategic-vision
[3]https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/digital-identity-solutions-market-247527694.html
