Gate.io Cryptopedia: How to Protect Your Assets with Security Devices?

What is a security appliance?

A security appliance is an external device-used for identity authentication that supports multi-factor authentication (MFA). These devices help avoid the risks of phishing and key leakage by allowing a user to authenticate via a one-time password, fingerprints or keys, which provides extra security protection to some degree. In practice, a user can authenticate by simply plugging the security device to a computer and authenticating with their fingerprints.

Cybersecurity is now more important than ever as cyber criminals have become increasingly creative, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is also gradually failing to prevent phishing and other security breaches. Hard wallets are easy-to-carry, secure devices (UKey) that support off-line storage: no need to enter credential information such as cell phone, ID card, password, etc. to complete authentication, login and share account data. In addition,
1. For individuals: ability to share information while protecting personal privacy and simplifying the login process.
2. For enterprises: protect login credentials, simplify authentication, improve enterprise efficiency, and reduce the risk of network attacks.
3. These security devices can also be used as a substitute for 2FA coupled with username/password login to significantly enhance security levels.

The function of security devices is mainly to maintain safety and ease. To put it simply, we are required to input password, SMS or a series of verifications to login into our accounts. In some special cases, platforms also demand that you input your ID and key information. But with a security device, you only need to insert it into the computer before you log in , and then use the biometric fingerprint scanner to log in. .

Many of the former verification steps are becoming redundant and time-consuming, but also pose a great risk of privacy leakage due to the reliance on the Internet. There is a relatively

high risk of important data being hijacked. If you have too many personal accounts, it takes effort to remember different often complicated passwords. By contrast, the latter is easier to operate, and most importantly, makes it difficult for criminals to steal your data and information over a network, so your account is considerably safer.

The characteristics of security devices

1.Generally compact in shape, waterproof and shockproof, easy to carry and use, and requiring connection to a computer (computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.)
2. One-click login, fast verification, no battery or network connection required.
3. No account takeover, more convenient and secure for sharing information.
4. flexible identity verification, low risk of data theft and network attack.

The role and application of Security Devices
An increasing number of enterprises are choosing to purchase and utilize security devices. According to statistics from “Krebs”, Google has not experienced phishing attacks on over 85,000 employees on their work accounts since early 2017, when the company began requiring all employees to use physical security keys (i.e., secure devices) instead of passwords and one-time codes.
While we understand the many benefits of a secure device, we also need to be aware of an important consideration: if you choose to use them, you’d better keep it with you. If you lose your device, getting access to the can be somewhat of a hassle.

How to use security devices for secure access? (Using “Gate UKey” as an example)
Gate.io now supports login access from a security device (Gate UKey). The first login, you need to plug in the security device and set “USB security key” (or touch the “built-in fingerprint device”) to complete authentication. When you log in again after successful authentication, you can follow these steps for secure access.
Step 1: Connect your security device to the USB port of your computer
Step 2: When there is a flashing light after insertion, please touch the gold button

To connect to Gate UKey security devices, please click:
https://www.gate.io/myaccount/webauthn

How Do I Buy a Security Device?

Enterprise service providers will manufacture and sell “security devices” with a price range of $50-$300, which are expensive and often not expandable. Often you will experience a high maintenance cost with frequent usage. Gate.io will provide you with Gate UKey for free to enhance the security of your assets.

Terminology

1. Two-factor authentication (2FA).
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a common method for verifying user identity, which requires two of the “three factors of authentication” to complete authentication. The first factor is usually “password login” and the second factor is “TOTP (equal to one-time password)”. MFA authentication is safer than 2FA. Gate.io Dual Authentication uses two-factor authentication (2FA), which provides better protection.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a common method to verify user identity and one of the better methods to prevent account theft. It requires two or more steps of authentication, i.e., at least two of the “three factors of authentication” must be achieved. Two-factor authentication (2FA) also belongs to multi-factor authentication.

3. Three factors of authentication.
Generally speaking, there are three different types of evidence that need to be submitted to prove a person’s identity, which are
1.Private information: some kind of information that only that user knows, such as a password.
2.Personal object: a personal item owned by the user, such as an ID card.
3.Biological factors: personal biometric features that the user has, such as fingerprints and iris.
The above three types of evidence are called the three factors of authentication.

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