U2F key - USB security key

What is a USB U2F security key?

The U2F security key is a flash drive-like device that guarantees secure access to websites, your computer, and any other equipment. It works by confirming a user's identity by uploading login credentials to a site via a USB port or proximity, using NFC. The public key is generated and uploaded to websites, providing an additional layer of security against phishing, emphasizing its importance in the user verification process. The private key, stored on the device, is used to sign login data, further strengthening security. Its operation is extremely convenient and effective, as it not only confirms the user's identity, but also verifies that the site you are trying to log in to is real, rather than just trying to phish your password through fake websites. This is an excellent solution for companies and individuals who want to protect their accounts from phishing attacks.

How does the U2F key work?

The U2F key acts as an additional authentication factor that ensures secure logins to online accounts and services. It is a form of multi-factor authentication (2FA) that ensures that only authorized individuals have access to your data.

When logging on to a computer or online service, the U2F key is plugged into a USB port. Then, after entering a login and password, the U2F key is activated and its unique access code is sent to the server. If the code is correct, the server confirms the user's identity and allows access to the account.

The U2F key works on the basis of the FIDO U2F standard, which is based on the Challenge-Response protocol. This means that the U2F key generates a unique access code for each login, which prevents phishing attacks and other forms of phishing for login credentials.

It is worth mentioning that the U2F key is also equipped with a function to prevent fake websites. If a user tries to log in to a fake site, the U2F key will not generate an access code, preventing a phishing attack.

In short, the U2F key acts as an additional authentication factor that provides secure logins to online accounts and services. Its unique access code and anti-counterfeiting feature make it an effective tool against phishing attacks and other forms of phishing for login credentials.

Advantages of the U2F key

First of all, the U2F key is the only two-step authentication method that protects you 100% from phishing. The primary key is an essential piece of security that should be carried with you at all times, while the backup key should be kept in a safe place. Every day there are sent approx. 3.4 billion phishing messages. In such an environment, effective defense is the cornerstone of any company's online operation. The U2F key is not vulnerable to phishing attacks because criminals cannot steal information from the physical security key. The only method could be the theft of the device, but there are also already keys secured additionally with the user's fingerprint, which will provide security for all users, including those worried about the possibility of having their key stolen. It is also worth considering the purchase of a spare U2F key, which is reasonable in case the primary key is stolen or lost.

Using the U2F key

To use a U2F key, you must first configure the key itself on each service, each site and each system separately. Many platforms have already introduced the ability to authenticate with a security key, but it is worth checking before purchasing whether the platforms you want to secure provide a two-factor authentication function in this form. The U2F key can be used to log in to a computer and to a variety of digital services, thus implementing it in each of these scenarios will be slightly different. First of all, however, the security key is configured from the settings of a site that allows two-factor logins, and then you can enjoy easy and secure access using our device.

Keys support:

• Gmail

• Microsoft

• Twitter

• Facebook

• Amazon

• Onet

• WP

• Dropbox

• Many other websites, banks, etc.

U2F key security

The U2F security key is currently the most effective form of security against phishing attacks. Dongles such as the U2F key enhance users' security in cyberspace through two-factor authentication. One key allows users to log in to dozens of platforms and store individual and strongly encrypted "access codes" to those platforms. The key works in such a way that when logging into a computer or website, you must first enter your username and password, and then authenticate yourself by running the U2F key. This method of authentication is currently the strongest form of authentication, as the two-factor verification data is stored on a completely secure medium in our possession. Possibly securing the key with the holder's fingerprint provides an additional level of security. Some U2F key models also support SSH key storage and OATH-HOTP/TOTP protocols, which can be useful for those who need additional security functionality.

Digital signature and private key

The private key is generated by the U2F key and is necessary for authentication. It is then stored in the U2F key's secure memory and cannot be read by unauthorized persons. This key can be used to generate a digital signature to confirm the user's identity when signing electronic documents.

Price and availability of the U2F key

The price of the U2F key starts at about PLN 160. At Stovaris, we are able to offer competitive prices for specific projects and for larger orders. All this is due to the fact that we are an authorized distributor of Swissbit iShield solutions in Poland.

Advantages and disadvantages of the U2F key

The disadvantages of the U2F key are that you have to spend about 150 zlotys for such a key, the increased login time, and the fact that you have to carry such a device with you whenever you want to log in later. Some key manufacturers also have a potential problem with hackers cloning keys.

The advantages of the U2F key are a definite improvement in security and ease of use. These keys are small enough to hide almost completely in a USB port, making them convenient and practical solutions for users looking for compact options. More and more organizations are choosing to deploy these tools at home, due to the frequency and increasing methods of phishing attacks. The U2F key is thus a cure-all for today's Internet environment full of threats.

Swissbit iShield U2F Keys

Swissbit is a Swiss manufacturer that manufactures keys from German territory. Their security solutions are characterized by exceptional robustness (IP68) and versatility (support for WebAuthn, FIDO2/CTAP2, Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) CTAP1 protocols ).

Choose a Swissbit iShield solution from our offerings for your organization and enjoy nationwide service support and implementation assistance. 

iShield Key FIDO2
(USB-A / NFC)

Summary

The U2F key is an effective solution for people who want to protect their accounts from phishing attacks.

The U2F key is easy to use and requires no special technical knowledge.

The U2F key from Swissbit, a proven supplier that manufactures its solutions in Germany, is available from Stovaris.

This group of products is based on the company's solutions:

Swissbit