Our Thinking | Intercity Technology

Is Your Password Pulling Its Weight? Why It’s Time to Rethink Security

Written by Intercity | Jun 3, 2020 11:03:00 AM

In a world where we juggle access to over 50 online accounts (and counting)—work apps, banking, Netflix binges, utility bills, and social media—keeping up with passwords feels like a full-time job. Each account demands a unique combo of letters, numbers, and special characters, and then you’re supposed to change them every 45-90 days.

Sound familiar? It’s no wonder we often find ourselves asking, “How secure is my password?”

Here’s the hard truth: passwords are more trouble than they’re worth. They’re a hacker’s playground, with a whopping 80% of breaches traced back to weak or compromised passwords. Add in the rising costs of data breaches (a jaw-dropping £3 million on average, or over £100 per stolen record), and it’s clear—it’s time to ditch the old ways.

 

Bring On the New Era of Security: Passwordless Solutions

With more businesses adopting Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies and cloud services becoming the norm, we need a smarter way to secure data—one that doesn’t rely on your memory or guesswork. Enter passwordless solutions like Windows Hello, security keys, and Microsoft Authenticator.

These tools do more than simplify your logins; they revolutionise how you think about security. Say goodbye to forgotten passwords and hello to streamlined, fool proof access.

The Magic of Biometrics: Your Face is the Key!

Your fingerprint, iris, or face—they’re uniquely you. Unlike passwords, these can’t be guessed, stolen, or reused. Biometrics are the backbone of passwordless solutions, like Windows Hello, making security both stronger and easier to manage.

But wait—what about privacy? That’s a fair concern, but here’s the good news: Microsoft’s biometric solutions are built on FIDO2 standards, ensuring your personal data stays personal. Microsoft doesn’t view, store, or share your biometric images. You’re in safe hands.

The Business Case: Why Passwordless is a No-Brainer

Still not convinced? Let’s talk numbers. Before adopting passwordless solutions, Microsoft itself was spending $3 million a year on IT help desk costs for password resets. Add to that another $6 million in lost productivity while employees waited to get back into their accounts. Ouch.

Fast forward to today: Microsoft has slashed those costs by 87%! Not only is their business more secure, but cybercriminals now face higher costs to breach their systems, making Microsoft a far less attractive target.

Your Passwordless Journey Starts Here

Ready to improve your security, cut costs, and boost productivity? Intercity is here to help you take the leap with Microsoft’s passwordless solutions:

  • Windows Hello: Secure logins with just a look or a touch.
  • Microsoft Authenticator: Multi-factor authentication made easy.
  • FIDO2 Security Keys: The ultimate hardware-based security.
 

With these tools in your corner, you’ll enjoy stronger security, happier users, and fewer help desk headaches. So, why wait? Let’s make passwordless a reality for your organisation.

Get in touch with our experts today to start your journey towards a simpler, more secure future.