USB NFC Security Key

USB NFC Security Key Protects Access On All Devices

Security Keys Header

Here Are The Key Elements For Security Keys.
1) What Is The 2FA Authentication?
2) How Do Security Keys Work?
3) Are Security Keys A Good Idea?
3) Why Use A Security Key?

Introduction

USB NFC security key protects your devices that use a password. Uses a two factor authentication process which makes it difficult for your accounts to get hacked. With multiple devices that most individuals use, it is imperative that these devices get protected from others. To use the key, just insert it into the USB-A port on your computer or the USB-C on your device.

Hackers like to get into your bank account for the purpose of stealing your hard earned money. By having 2FA authentication you make it difficult for hackers to get into your data. Hackers also like to make purchases using the information they stole. So, having a form of protection that requires two forms of identification makes it more difficult for this to happen.

You will have to decide on which type of security key to purchase. Some work with USB-A port or the USB-C connector. Some individuals get both types. Some USB-A devices are: printers, scanners, keyboards, mouse, flash drives, external hard drives, joysticks, cameras, desktops, tablets, and laptops.

Some USB-C devices are modern computers, laptops, smartphones and tablets. The bottom line here is you have to decide on which type of security key best protects most or all of your devices that are used on a regular basis.

The security keys are an actual physical key that you carry around, much like the one to your front door. In the age of digital technology, when we use our smartphone to now unlock the front door, it may seem odd to think of carrying a physical key to unlock web sites. But these physical keys use an open authentication standard called FIDO (Fast Identity Online) that is a form of cryptography, and prevent people from hacking into an account or even accessing one, from a passcode that’s been stolen or phished.

Yubico, which makes YubiKey, has released a new security key YubiKey Bio – FIDO Edition and YubiKey C Bio – FIDO Edition. These new keys use the passwordless biometric authentication. Security functions supported are: WebAuthn, FIDO2 CTAP1, FIDO2 CTAP2, and Universal 2^nd Factor (U2F).

It is recommended that before you purchase any security key, that you make sure it will support all of the services you will be using.

What Is The 2FA Authentication

The 2FA is a two-factor authentication security system that requires two separate distinct forms of identification in order to access something. For example, your iPhone or computer will require the 2FA security key to unlock access. Using a two distinct forms of identification to access your online accounts is worth it. Your bank accounts and other information is protected from hackers.

The security keys protect you against impostor websites that try to steal your login credentials to gain access to sensitive accounts such as email. Even though there are other forms of two-factor authentication like authenticator apps and push notifications they do not give you the same level of protection that a security key does.

How Do Security Keys Work?

When you insert a security key into your computer or connect one wirelessly, your browser issues a challenge to the key, which includes the domain name of the specific site you are trying to access. The key then cryptographically signs and allows the challenge, logging you in to the service.

In practice a security key is a physical security device with a totally unique identity. It houses a small chip with all of the security protocols and code that allows it to connect with servers and verify your identity. It’s used to ensure that you are the person actually accessing a site or service.

Are Security Keys A Good Idea?

In most instances this is a great idea because security keys are more secure than authenticator apps. However, if you are prone to lose things, this may not be such a good idea. If you are prone to lose things around the house, you will want at least two security keys. One for everyday use and one as a backup key that can stay somewhere secure in your house like a safe. Or, at your local bank in your safe deposit box.

Even if you do not lose things, it is highly recommended that you have a backup key just in case you may need it.

Why Use A Security Key?

If you sign in to many different online sites or access different types of accounts, a security key will offer you some protection against hackers. A security key is a device that facilitates access, or stronger authentication, into other devices, online systems, and applications. These keys are also known as security tokens.

In order for the security key to properly identify you, the user must insert the security key into the computer or smartphone. Without the security key, no one can gain access into any of the devices that is protected by 2FA authentication.

PROS

Protects hackers from getting in your online accounts
Provides for two way authentication
Difficult for outsiders gaining access into your devices
Security keys have a 30-year lifetime
Requires two forms of identification
Security keys are better than SMS

CONS

Requires you to use the key for all access
Issues in gaining access to accounts if the key is lost or stolen
Purchasing a second key for backup

Conclusion

Security keys are very good in protecting outsiders from getting into your online accounts or services. The 2FA security is becoming more popular for individuals who have lots of services and online accounts where their personal information is stored.

SMS security does not go as far as 2FA security does and is more secure. The only drawback to security keys is they are required to access the device. If you should lose the key, you may have some difficulty in accessing your devices. Most people purchase a second key for a backup and store it in a safe place.

The bottom line is to purchase a security key that offers 2FA process for accessing online services or personal accounts.