Authentify to release extension to device-based biometric multifactor authenticator

Authentify announced at this week’s BlackHat USA 2014 conference it is introducing xFA Smart Choice, an extension to its xFA device-based multifactor authentication service.

xFA Smart Choice enables enterprises to automatically choose or prioritize the authentication factors their end-users have offered on their mobile device, simplifying the overall authentication process for end-users.

“The barrier to mass-market deployment of stronger authentication boils down to the impact on the user experience,” said John Zurawski, vice president at Authentify. “After all, security and convenience have historically had an inverse relationship. But we are turning that equation on its head by using device-based security. Smartphones are packed with features that can be used for strong authentication. What we have done is make that experience as simple, automated and friction-free for mobile users as SSL or HTTPS is on the Web.”

Authentify relied on its significant experience in mobile and device-based authentication to develop the prioritization system of authenticators.

According to the company, Authentify’s customers include four of the largest banks in the U.S., two of the top insurance companies in North America and many leading e-commerce websites.

Authentify’s xFA is an app and online service that transforms mobile devices into a multi-function security token ideal for BYOD applications.

Using biometrics, knowledge-based authenticators and finger swipe movements, the service provides server-to-server class digital certificate-based security, along with optional QR code scan logins.

xFA, which stands for “x” factors of authentication, can be used for access or transaction confirmation. The service uses an encrypted, out of band communication channel to safeguard users against potential security threats, including man-in-the-middle or man-in-the-browser.

Authentify offers a demonstration video of xFA in action.

Reported previously, Authentify announced its support for the Samsung Galaxy S5 fingerprint reader.

Article Topics

Authentify  |  biometrics  |  multifactor authentication  |  smartphones