NC #998 Making Physics Shorts, Ice to Replace Bartender, Sony Hearing Aids, Security Bits
Jun 24, 2024
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Physics Nerd Graeme discusses making physics shorts for YouTube. Ice could replace bartender app. Sony offers OTC hearing aids at CSUN. Security Bits cover Microsoft's privacy concerns and Sonos app accessibility challenges.
Modern authentication divides authentication and authorization processes for enhanced security.
Selective permission granting through tokens minimizes risks of unauthorized access by apps.
Centralized security updates at the Identity Provider level streamline app security measures.
Deep dives
Transition to Modern Authentication
Modern authentication is a significant shift from legacy authentication methods used by services like Google, Microsoft, and Mastodon. Legacy authentication involved the exchange of usernames and passwords between user apps and servers, posing security risks and limitations. In contrast, modern authentication divides the authentication and authorization processes, enhancing security and control. Users prove their identity to a single server, the Identity Provider (IDP), which issues a token with user identification, permissions, and an expiration date. Tokens, not passwords, are then used for app authorization, improving data security and limiting app permissions.
Authorization Granularity and Reduced Risk
Modern authentication emphasizes authorization granularity, allowing apps to request specific permissions that users authorize individually. This selective permission granting mitigates risks associated with apps having full access to usernames and passwords. Tokens are tailored to grant only necessary access, preventing misuse or unauthorized actions by apps. Additionally, revoking specific tokens offers precise control over app permissions without compromising overall security.
Centralized Security Updates and Seamless Implementations
Centralizing security updates is a key advantage of modern authentication. Modifications or advancements in security measures, such as supporting passkeys or new authentication methods, can be implemented at the Identity Provider level. This streamlines the process for apps, requiring only one-time updates to integrate new security features. By separating authentication responsibilities, apps remain secure as changes are managed centrally by the Identity Provider.
User Experience and Ease of Access Management
For users, the modern authentication process involves seamless authorization with user-friendly interfaces. When authorizing apps like calendar or mail clients, users interact with the Identity Provider to prove identity and grant necessary permissions. The authorization experience typically includes reviewing permissions and granting access with a simple click, ensuring a smooth and secure user interaction. Through token-based authentication, users can manage and monitor app authorizations with ease, enhancing overall data security and user control.
Modern Auth Protocols for Home Users and Enterprises
Home users predominantly use OAuth2 for authentication, while enterprises utilize SAML2 and OIDC. These protocols have been well-established for years, ensuring secure authentication processes. Microsoft's shift to modern authentication two years ago paved the way for widespread updating of apps, streamlining the transition for users to the newer authentication methods.
GitHub's Security Measures and Introduction of Passkeys
GitHub's head of security emphasizes the importance of secure practices, including passkeys for cloud protection. Enabling MFA on root passwords is crucial to prevent server lockouts. Improved security measures by Amazon and GitHub contribute to reducing data breach incidents, emphasizing the need for stringent security configurations on cloud platforms.
