Mum calls and mentions some app-based frustrations. Microsoft Outlook is asking for an update but, when she goes to allow it, she’s prompted to delete Facebook and a bird-watching app.
“That doesn’t sound right,” I say, and I suggest uninstalling Outlook and re-downloading it from the app store, fresh.
She’s not keen on this plan as it’s likely to mean re-entering her password.
“It’s the dark side of the web,” she says.
“No it isn’t,” I say.
“It. Is,” she says.
I have wondered how much longer passwords will be the method for logging onto websites and into apps. I have no problem with passwords; I even have (and love) a password manager. However, most people really seem to struggle with them on the regular.
Hi Todd! I hadn’t thought about an end to passwording but you’re probably right. What do you see them replaced with? Thumbprint?
The micro.blog site did away with passwords completely. They ask for your email address only. Once you enter it they send you an email, and clicking on the link they send to your email logs you into the site automatically.
Of course, logging into your email (currently) requires a password, but it may be that all we will need to remember is one (email) password. Something like that may work until eye scans or thumb prints take over. Most new “smartphones” have either eye or thumb recognition to open the phone.
Sounds good. Maybe that will happen. Or perhaps some sort of longitudinal security system across all platforms, like Gravatar but for a password. That’d be cool. Thanks for drawing my attention to micro.blog, by the way. Non-evil, back-to-basics Twitter! I do not want to get involved but I’m glad it exists.