There will be some movement in authentication technology in 2025. The challenges for companies are developing rapidly and authentication methods need to be continually adapted. In particular, AI-powered attacks, new regulatory requirements and technological advances are changing security strategies. Here we present the most important authentication trends for 2025:
1. AI-Powered Phishing Attacks Require Stronger Authentication
AI-powered phishing attacks require stronger authentication. Cybercriminals are increasingly using AI to make phishing attacks more realistic and profitable. Deepfake voices and social engineering techniques make classic multi-factor authentication (MFA) such as OTP SMS or insecure push confirmations more vulnerable. Companies are therefore increasingly relying on phishing-resistant MFA solutions such as FIDO2 security keys and passwordless authentication to protect their systems. Because the industry agrees on one thing: the biggest weak point is people!
Challenge for companies - It remains a challenge not only to implement appropriate MFA technologies, but also to ensure that employees receive regular training and awareness.
2. Regulatory Pressure from NIS2 & DORA
With the introduction of new regulations such as NIS2 and DORA, the pressure on companies to strengthen their authentication measures is increasing. Small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) in particular face the challenge of meeting compliance requirements without overloading their IT security capacities. The solution: MFA solutions that take regulatory requirements into account from the outset and enable easy implementation.
Challenge for companies - Implementing solutions that meet regulatory requirements and are scalable with existing resources is a challenging task, especially for SMEs.
3. FIDO Passkeys & Adaptive Authentication on the Rise
Passkeys, based on FIDO2/WebAuthn, offer a secure and user-friendly alternative to passwords and effectively prevent phishing attacks. At the same time, adaptive authentication is being established, which dynamically adapts to the user's context - for example based on device, location or behavior. This allows companies to better balance security and usability by making risk-based access decisions.
Challenge for companies - Moving to passwordless authentication and adaptive solutions can be met with resistance in organizations if employees are used to traditional methods. It also requires extensive integration into existing systems, which requires additional resources.
4. MFA as a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP)
More and more companies do not have the internal resources to effectively manage multi-factor authentication (MFA). Managed Security Service Providers (MSSP) are increasingly providing and monitoring MFA solutions, allowing companies to benefit from current security standards without having to develop their own expertise. This reduces the burden on internal IT departments and ensures that MFA implementations are always up to date.
Challenge for companies - Choosing a suitable MSSP can be difficult because it requires ensuring that the provider adheres to the highest security standards and closely adheres to data protection regulations. It is particularly important to choose a partner with the necessary expertise, who can address specific security needs and support the implementation and ongoing maintenance of MFA solutions with in-depth know-how.
5. Microsoft Entra ID: Cloud-first as the New Standard
Identity and access management will move further to the cloud in 2025. Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) is establishing itself as a central identity and MFA hub for companies. The combination of Entra ID, FIDO passkeys and conditional access enables future-proof authentication that is increasingly replacing on-prem solutions. Companies benefit from a scalable, secure and flexible identity management strategy that seamlessly integrates into existing cloud environments.
Challenge for companies - Migrating to a cloud-first strategy requires careful planning, especially when companies still rely on on-prem solutions. Data protection and security concerns must also be taken into account.
In 2025, authentication technology will evolve towards greater security, flexibility and regulatory requirements. Companies must prepare for phishing-resistant processes, increasing compliance requirements and cloud-based identity solutions. Those who rely on FIDO2, adaptive authentication and MSSP services early on will not only remain secure, but also competitive in the digital future. In the coming weeks we will take a closer look at the individual trends. Look forward to further blog posts on the latest industry developments.
Want to learn more?
Visit www.mtrix.com or schedule a consultation to discuss how we can help secure your authentication future.