Passwords to be replaced by Web Authentication

 

It looks like login usernames and passwords are on their way out. No longer will we have to worry about the security of our login credentials. They are set to be replaced by an infinitely more secure login system known as Web Authentication. Web Authentication has become an official standard for logging in at the main Internet standards body, the World Wide Web Consortium (WWWC). It is a system that will be universally used by web browsers and platforms for simpler and stronger authentication processes. It will allow website users to log in securely to their online accounts using a digital device, biometrics (such as fingerprints and facial recognition) or USB security keys.

The WWWC spoke about the days of passwords being numbered. A spokesperson said: "It's common knowledge that passwords have outlived their efficacy. Not only are stolen, weak or default passwords behind 81 per cent of data breaches, they are a drain of time and resources." It added: "Now is the time for web services and businesses to adopt Web Authentication to move beyond vulnerable passwords and help web users improve the security of their online experiences," Web Authentication means users are at less risk of having their passwords and credentials stolen. This is because login authentication is achieved via physical devices or biometrics from our body.

1. FINGERPRINTS: Students A strongly believe fingerprints are more secure than passwords; Students B strongly believe the opposite.  
2. BIOMETRICS: What will we be able to do with these biometrics in the future? Complete this table with your partner(s). Change partners often and share what you wrote.

	What We Could Do	Security Risks
Eyes
Fingerprints
DNA
Body smell
Voice
Face

3.Vocabulary

    Paragraph 1

1.	credentials	a.	A group of people with a common purpose or function acting as an organization.
2.	infinitely	b.	Relating to or about the face.
3.	standard	c.	The details you need (such as usernames and passwords) needed to log in online.
4.	body	d.	A required or agreed level of quality or attainment.
5.	platform	e.	To a very great degree; without limit.
6.	biometrics	f.	A standard for the hardware of a computer system, determining what kinds of software it can run.
7.	facial	g.	The use of the face and body to be used for security purposes (e.g. logging on to websites, gaining access to areas of a building, etc.).

    Paragraph 2

8.	numbered	h.	Something known by most people.
9.	common	i.	The ability to produce a desired or intended result.
10.	efficacy	j.	Open to physical or emotional attack or harm.
11.	breach	k.	Not surviving or remaining in a position of power or advantage for much longer.
12.	drain	l.	A thing made or adapted for a particular purpose, especially a piece of mechanical or electronic equipment.
13.	vulnerable	m.	Cause money, energy, or another valuable resource to be lost, wasted, or used up.
14.	device	n.	A gap in a wall, barrier, or defense.

 

Before reading / listening

4. SYNONYM MATCH: Match the following synonyms from the article.

1. worry
2. credentials
3. standard
4. universally
5. accounts for
6. numbered
7. efficacy
8. drain
9. vulnerable
10. achieved

1. makes up
2. attained
3. all over
4. limited
5. fret
6. burden
7. weak
8. ID
9. benefit
10. guideline

5.Role play

Role  A – USB Drive You think a USB drive is the most useful device. Tell the others three reasons why. Tell them what is wrong with their devices. Also, tell the others which is the least useful of these (and why): a digital camera, a smart watch or a 3D printer.

Role  B – Digital Camera You think a digital camera is the most useful device. Tell the others three reasons why. Tell them what is wrong with their devices. Also, tell the others which is the least useful of these (and why): a USB drive, a smart watch or a 3D printer.

Role  C – Smart Watch You think a smart watch is the most useful device. Tell the others three reasons why. Tell them what is wrong with their devices. Also, tell the others which is the least useful of these (and why): a digital camera, a USB drive or a 3D printer.

Role  D – 3D Printer You think a 3D printer is the most useful device. Tell the others three reasons why. Tell them what is wrong with their devices. Also, tell the others which is the least useful of these (and why): a digital camera, a smart watch or a USB drive. OR              electronic dictionary,  MP3 player ,scanner, smart glasses ·          ·

6.Discussion - Passwords to be replaced by Web Authentication

1. How much do you worry about online security?
2. Have you ever had problems online?
3. What do you think of the idea of passwords?
4. What would you do if your passwords were stolen?
5. What do you think of the Web Authentication system?
6. What do you know about biometrics?
7. How secure do you think fingerprints and facial recognition are?

11. Have you ever been hacked?
12. How many passwords do you have?
13. How dangerous is the Internet?
14. What happens when someone steals your identity?
15. What is your biggest worry about being online?
16. What advice do you have for people to stay safe online?
17. What questions would you like to ask a hacker?