Tackling the Password Problem: Image- and Gesture-Based Alternatives to Alphanumeric Passwords

Abstract

Alphanumeric passwords remain a ubiquitous means of user authentication, yet they are plagued by a fundamental problem: Secure passwords are difficult to create and remember. This paper suggests that image- or gesture-based passwords might strike a better balance between security and usability. It examines two such systems that are currently in widespread commercial use and examines alternative approaches that may offer insights for future improvements. Finally, it considers the possibility that touch-screen gesture passwords may become a viable biometric measure, which may allow them to provide multi-factor gesture-based authentication.