User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user attempting to gain access to digital systems, platforms, or sensitive information. User authentication methods include passwords, personal identification numbers (PINs), biometrics (fingerprint, facial recognition, or voice), one-time passwords (OTPs), or multi-factor authentication (MFA) and other tools to ensure secure access and prevent unauthorized use. Some organizations implement two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) that combines these methods to verify user identity.
Use case/ examples for user authentication
Secure platform access: Verifying a user’s identity before granting access to banking, healthcare, government, or enterprise platforms through multi-factor authentication that combines passwords, biometrics, and/or device verification.
Passwordless login: Implementing biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition that provide secure, frictionless access without relying on passwords, which are easily shared or otherwise compromised.
Continuous authentication: Monitoring user behavior throughout a session in order to detect anomalies that might indicate account compromise, triggering re-authentication/step-up authentication when suspicious patterns emerge.
