These days, it’s not at all unusual to have to confirm identify before accessing an account or completing a transaction online. It’s not enough to simply input the username and password; you also must verify a code you received via text on a trusted device.
While this process known as two-factor authentication is encouraged as a best practice online, it’s rarely mentioned as a best practice for in person security. Gaining access to a facility is typically as simple as using a key or swiping a card.
But shouldn’t we at least consider two-factor authentication for facility security? I believe so.
It’s not hard to imagine a scenario where two-factor authentication would be helpful. For instance, imagine an employee loses their key card or – even worse – it’s stolen. If the thief acts quickly enough before the loss is detected, he or she can gain access to a facility simply by swiping the card and walking in the door.
Two-factor authentication would prevent that from happening. How? By requiring two of three verifications of identity. We verify identity in three key ways:
1. What you know (a pin code)
2. What you have (credential like a card key)
3. Who/what you are (a biometric indicator, such as a finger print, hand scan, face scan)
Imagine that the thief who stole the card attempted to gain access to your facility by swiping it and entering the door. Two-factor authentication would demand that they present either a pin code or biometric evidence in addition to the credential. A PIN code would be a strong second step, but even that can be stolen or even guessed. In addition, demanding a PIN code might slow traffic flow and make the process inefficient.
What’s harder to fake is biometric evidence. It’s a lot more difficult to steal someone’s face than it is to steal their key card.
What if video security cameras were integrated to enable facial recognition in addition to credentials? The result would be a powerful, efficient tool for maintaining facility integrity and keeping traffic flowing.
Interested in learning more about how you can integrate systems for greater security and efficiency? Call for a consultation today.
