Natural Authentication is the process of establishing whether someone or something is, who they say they are without any explicit action or conscious intervention. The entire process of authentication is seamless and the process happens in the back end without any deliberate involvement. This could be achieved by analyzing various data points such as Gait, Iris or Retinal Scan, EEG, MRI, etc. To increase the accuracy of authentication protocol multiple data points could be used.
Context:
Traditionally, authentication is the process of a system prompting the user, process or device for a password, a hardware token, a pose in front of a camera, or a scan of a body part. This is then followed by an approval or disapproval message. These methods generally require the user to do something, carry something, remember something, or perform somehow.
Natural Authentication may still use various devices, scanners, or implants to collect data or track a subject, however, does not require the subject to perform any action. Multifactor authentication uses two or more different factors to achieve authentication. The factors include :
- something you know (e.g., PIN, password)
- something you have (e.g., cryptographic identification device, token)
- or something you are (e.g., biometric).
When it comes to the Metaverse, XRSI has established that “Something you ARE” is the most secure and the least vulnerable to current methods of hacking. This directly implies that Natural Authentication is the most preferred method for Immersive Technology systems such as the Metaverse.
The following emerging technologies enable Natural Authentication:
- Biometric Technologies: Gait analysis, voice recognition, eye-tracking, and EEG analysis, which all aid in building a unique profile of the user.
- Machine Learning (ML): ML models and algorithms are used to analyze sensor data and make positive matches. These models can be trained and updated anytime, with the user retaining full control.
- Sensor Technologies: Various sensors are used to collect data from users’ environments and physical attributes, including movement, sound, electrical activity, and more.
- Local Processing & Encryption: Advanced processing and encryption methods help in keeping the authentication process local to the device, without the need to transmit personal biometric data, thus preserving privacy.
- Advanced Networking and Communication Infrastructure: 5G, 6G, and advanced wireless communications technologies can support the transmission of large volumes of data for Natural Authentication, especially in cases where local processing might not be feasible.
