In a world of ever-evolving digital threats, many countries have mandated two-factor authentication (2FA) for financial transactions. This list includes the EU (for transactions over 30 Euros), Japan, Canada, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Turkey, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa, to name a few. However, while there are numerous 2FA solutions, many share a common problem: they are highly inconvenient for customers. Most methods require customers to adapt their behavior—whether by entering a code, using an authenticator app, or inserting a physical device. These changes, no matter how small, are often met with resistance unless they simplify the customer experience.
The friction inherent in most 2FA solutions has driven many companies to seek out "invisible" approaches to authentication. One such approach is device fingerprinting.
The Device Fingerprinting “Catch-22”
Device fingerprinting works by identifying discoverable characteristics of a user's device, operating in the background without the user's explicit awareness. This subtlety is precisely what puts it under increased scrutiny from privacy-conscious regulators. Companies that rely on device fingerprinting find themselves stuck between opposing demands: regulators who insist on stronger safety measures, and those who demand greater consumer privacy. Naturally, consumers desire both safety and privacy—with minimal effort on their part.
The Problem with Disclosure and Permissions
Consider this: how many of us have refused to allow Chrome to find devices on our network due to privacy concerns? Or how many would permit an app to access our location for safety purposes? While many users consent to such measures, a significant minority do not—and this group cannot be effectively protected by many current device fingerprinting technologies. Furthermore, privacy regulations (rightly so, in my opinion) continue to require greater disclosure and explicit permissions for behind-the-scenes tracking. These measures, akin to the proliferation of cookies, complicate the user experience. Yet, even those users who decline such tracking are still mandated to use 2FA.
Ideem's Solution
Ideem’s Zerotrust Security Module (ZSM) employs modern cryptography to achieve device identity (i.e., fingerprinting) and binds the device to a user. By avoiding the use of identifiable characteristics of the user or device, we align with privacy regulations, which appreciate our approach. Additionally, our cryptographic software has hardware-grade certification (FIPS 140-3), which satisfies the stringent requirements of financial regulators. Best of all, our solution requires zero interaction from the user, making it a seamless experience that consumers love.
If you need 2FA and are struggling with compliance, reach out to us via call or email. We’re here to help.
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