Anybody with a newer mobile phone has likely experienced the magic of biometric authentication. The beauty of these options -- which rely on recognition of each individual’s unique physical properties is that you can’t “forget” your own self; you are also hard to replicate. Biometric authentication can include recognition of fingerprints, faces, irises, voices, and even heartbeats. 

Biometric authentication is fast and effective. Some users, however, might fear sharing their unique personal data with tech companies; and if compromised, that data presents an even bigger risk. You can change a password, but you cannot change your fingerprint. 

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is exactly what it sounds like. Instead of just using a password to log in, you add a second “test.” Traditionally, that’s entering a one-time code sent by SMS or email; other times it can be entering an app and responding to a prompt. But, MFA doesn’t have to include a password or a second user step at all! The MFA process can also include biometrics or unique cryptography. A Zero-knowledge proof protocol allows users to prove their identity without actually sharing vulnerable information. In some cases all it takes is a 4-digit pin and the magic of a cryptographic token stored in a browser or mobile app.