Authentication data

Authentication data refers to the information used to verify the identity of a user, system, application, or device attempting to access a resource or service. Authentication verifies identity, while authorization determines what the authenticated user is allowed to do.

Authentication data is a critical component of security mechanisms, ensuring that only authorized entities can access protected resources. It can include credentials such as passwords, tokens, biometrics, or certificates. It should should never be stored in plaintext. Instead, it should be hashed or encrypted, and transmitted using secure protocols to prevent unauthorized access or interception. Handling authentication data often falls under privacy regulations like GDPR, CCPA, or HIPAA, depending on the context.

Authentication data typically includes:

• Knowledge-based authentication (something you know)
  • Username and password
  • Security questions and answers
  • Personal identification number
• Possession-based authentication (something you have)
  • One-time passwords
  • Physical security tokens
  • Digital certificates
  • Smart cards
• Biometric authentication (something you are)
  • Fingerprint data
  • Facial recognition data
  • Iris or retina scans
  • Voice recognition data
• Behavioral authentication (something you do)
  • Keystroke patterns
  • Mouse movement or gesture patterns
• Token-based or cryptographic authentication
  • Session tokens
  • API keys
  • SSH keys
  • OAuth access tokens
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Password + OTP
  • Password + biometric
  • Smart Card + PIN