A method of verifying the identity of non-human entities without explicit user action.
Description
Implicit authentication refers to the process of automatically validating the identity of non-human identities (NHIs) such as devices, applications, or services based on their behavior, attributes, or context, rather than requiring explicit user input like passwords or tokens. This type of authentication is particularly relevant in scenarios involving IoT (Internet of Things), where devices often need to communicate and perform actions without direct user intervention. By leveraging contextual information such as IP addresses, device characteristics, and historical interaction patterns, systems can establish trust and authorize actions seamlessly. For instance, a smart thermostat that learns user preferences over time might adjust settings without needing user confirmation each time. Implicit authentication enhances user experience by reducing friction while maintaining security, especially in environments where devices operate autonomously. However, it also raises concerns regarding security and privacy, as reliance on implicit methods may expose systems to risks if not properly managed.
Examples
- A smart home system that automatically adjusts settings based on learned patterns of user behavior.
- An enterprise application that recognizes and grants access to authorized devices without requiring login credentials.
Additional Information
- Implicit authentication can improve user experience by minimizing the need for repeated logins.
- Security measures should be implemented to monitor and prevent unauthorized access, despite the convenience of implicit methods.
References
- Human vs. Non-Human Identity in SaaS
- Part 1: Non-human identity security – The complete technical guide
- Non-human Account Management (v4)
- #SSI101: An overview of non-human identities - Spherity - Medium
- Why ontologies are best left implicit (especially for credentials)
- The Illusion of Internet Identity
- Mistaking Authentication for Identification - Guillaume Malette - Medium
- Proof of Humanity and Cost of Forgery
- From the Editor: Security Community-Blurring the Line between Authentication and Identification
- #SSI101: Attest, Identify, Authenticate, and Verify