Current password systems are fundamentally flawed as they have been the primary method of authentication for over sixty years. They are often untrustworthy, leading to significant security vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity experts recognize that the reliance on passwords creates a binary access system where knowing a password grants full access, which can be exploited by threat actors.

Cybercriminals exploit authentication weaknesses primarily through phishing and the use of stolen or compromised credentials. These tactics account for a significant portion of breaches, with data indicating that credential manipulation is a major crisis in cybersecurity. Organizations are often targeted because their credentials are readily available on the dark web, where they can be purchased for an average of nearly $11 each.

Organizations can improve their identity and access management by adopting best practices such as changing default passwords, separating user and privileged credentials, revoking unnecessary access, and supporting multifactor authentication (MFA). Additionally, utilizing password managers and single sign-on services can help streamline access while enhancing security. Recognizing the complexities of permissioning access is also crucial in mitigating risks associated with identity management.