Deloitte: User-generated passwords will be vulnerable

By Rob Starr, Content Manager, Big4.com

More than 90% of user-generated passwords will be vulnerable to hacking in a matter of seconds, according to Deloitte’s Canadian Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT) Predictions 2013 report. Deloitte’s TMT Predictions 2013 report also counters what many believe to be true, revealing less than 1% of Canadians will “cut-the-cord” on their subscription TV services, existing broadcasters will continue to deliver the majority of OTT services, and 4K televisions won’t disrupt the marketplace just yet.

It’s human behaviour and a tendency for password re-use that puts password security at risk. Moving to longer passwords or to truly random passwords is unlikely to work, since people just won’t use them. Multifactor authentication using tokens, cellphones, credit cards or even biometrics are likely solutions.

Deloitte also predicts that almost all Canadian households currently paying for TV subscriptions will continue to subscribe. Despite the perceived popularity of pure plays, the OTT market will continue to be controlled by existing players.

Also on the subject of television, while it’s true that 4K televisions – which offer four times the resolution of the current highest standard – are starting to be available, Deloitte predicts that only a very few will be sold in Canada. Most Canadians will not want to pay the hefty price tag, especially as there won’t be any 4K broadcasts this year.

For more than a decade, Deloitte’s TMT Predictions have forecast many of the most influential trends in technology, media and telecommunications — making them a key source of market intelligence for businesses in all sectors.

More than 90% of user-generated passwords — even those considered strong — will be vulnerable to hacking in seconds. Additional forms of authentication including token devices, additional passwords sent through SMS to your phone, fingerprints and other biometrics, or even ‘tap and go’ credit cards may be required.