Support for Hardware Security Keys
To make multi-factor authentication (MFA) a little easier for users, 4me now supports the use of hardware security keys, such as the ones provided by Yubico, Thetis and FEITIAN. A hardware security key does not rely on the user receiving a code in a text message or email so this code can be used to confirm the user’s identity. Instead, a physical key that the user owns is used as the second factor in the authentication process. Not having to wait for a code and not having to entering this code makes the whole authentication process much more convenient.
In the 4me Specialist Interface, users can add a security key by clicking on their picture or initials in the upper right of the browser window and selecting the ‘My Profile’ option. They can then open the ‘Access & Security’ section. That is where, if multi-factor authentication has not yet been activated, they can click on the option ‘Set up 2FA in 4me’.
Apart from the option to set up two-factor authentication with an authentication app (like Authy or Google Authenticator), users now see the option to add a security key.
When the option to add a security key is selected, users can give their security key a name.
After pressing the Register button, 4me will guide them through the last steps.
Users then have the ability to download or copy a set of recovery codes before 2FA is actually activated.
After a security key has been registered, additional keys can be added, for the 4me App on the user’s smartphone.
The built-in TouchID sensor on MacBooks can also be added as a security key. It is even possible to use both security keys and an authentication app.
All in all, 4me’s support for hardware security keys gives users a lot more flexibility when they are making use of two-factor authentication to protect their 4me access.