The most secure Authentication Methods that are PSD2 compliant
Tags: multifactorauthentication, twofactorauthentication, mfa, 2fa
Published: 2022-12-28 09:08:45

## Secure Authentication Methods

There are many different authentication methods that can be used to secure access to systems, devices, or online accounts. The most secure method will depend on the specific needs and goals of an organization or application. Here are a few examples of authentication methods that are generally considered to be more secure:

- Two-factor authentication (2FA): This method involves requiring users to provide two forms of authentication in order to access a system or account. This can be something they know (such as a password), something they have (such as a security token or mobile device), or something they are (such as a biometric characteristic). 2FA can be more secure than a single-factor authentication method because it is harder for an attacker to obtain both forms of authentication.
-     Multi-factor authentication (MFA): This method is similar to 2FA, but it involves requiring users to provide multiple forms of authentication. This can increase the level of security, as it is even harder for an attacker to obtain all of the required forms of authentication.
-     Biometric authentication: This method involves using a unique physical characteristic of an individual (such as a fingerprint, facial recognition, voice recognition or [typing biometrics](https://typing.ai)) to verify their identity. [Biometric authentication](https://typing.ai/blog/category/authentication) can be more secure than password-based methods because it is difficult to forge or steal a biometric characteristic.

It is worth noting that no authentication method is completely foolproof, and different methods may be more or less suitable for different applications. In the future, it is likely that we will see the continued development and integration of different authentication methods, as well as the emergence of new technologies and approaches. Some examples of this could include the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning to improve the accuracy and reliability of authentication methods, or the use of blockchain technology to secure and verify identity. 

Ultimately, the future of authentication will depend on a variety of factors, and it is difficult to predict exactly what it will look like.

## Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2)

Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2) is a regulatory framework that was introduced by the European Union (EU) in order to increase competition and innovation in the payment services industry, as well as enhance consumer protection and security in online payments.

PSD2 was introduced in 2015 and became fully effective in 2018. It applies to all EU member states as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

One of the main objectives of PSD2 is to create a level playing field for payment service providers (PSPs), including banks, e-money issuers, and third-party payment providers. The directive requires PSPs to provide access to their customers' payment accounts to authorized third parties, known as "payment initiation service providers" (PISPs) and "account information service providers" (AISPs), under certain conditions. This is intended to allow for the development of new and innovative payment services, as well as increase competition in the market.

Another key aspect of PSD2 is the introduction of strong customer authentication (SCA) requirements for electronic payments. SCA involves requiring users to provide at least two forms of authentication in order to confirm their identity and authorize a payment. This can include something they know (such as a password), something they have (such as a security token or mobile device), or something they are (such as a biometric characteristic). The SCA requirements are intended to enhance the security of online payments and protect consumers from fraud.

PSD2 was introduced as a way to promote innovation and competition in the payment services industry, while also enhancing consumer protection and [security in online payments](https://typing.ai/blog/everything-you-should-know-about-psd2-and-strong-customer-authentication-sca). It has had a significant impact on the payment services market in the EU and beyond, and is likely to continue to shape the industry in the coming years.