Multi-Factor Authentication is a must for Smart Card-Based Access Control Systems

Making sure that one's Smart Card-Based Access Control System is secure and protected against any threats is a vital issue nowadays, especially since there are several ways in which an attacker could potentially leverage security shortcomings to their own advantage via skimming, eavesdropping and relay attacks.

RFID devices are typically used as proximity or smart card identification in tracking and access control systems. However, they can be subjected to a range of attacks, which include skimming (the attacker uses his reader to access information on the victim's RFID token without consent), eavesdropping (an attacker can recover the data sent during a transaction between a legitimate reader and a token, which requires the attack to be set up in the vicinity of a likely target) or relay attacks (an attacker relays communication between the reader and a token and temporarily possesses a 'clone' of a token, thereby allowing him to gain the associated benefits).

Because the aforementioned threats, single factor verification no longer provides the access security required by many organizations, and this is where multi-factor verification that uses both a card and a PIN. To enter, the individual presents their proximity or smart card, gets a flash and beep and then enters her PIN on the keypad. The electronic access control system then prompts a second beep on the reader and the individual is authorized to enter.

Another novel way of protecting card-based systems is to provide a high-security handshake or code between the card, tag and reader to help prevent credential duplication to ensure that readers will only collect data from these specially coded credentials.

Tensor IP Access Control Systems enables enhanced security and reliability via multi-factor authentication

Tensor plc is the No.1 British designer and manufacturer of smart card — based access control and time and attendance terminals. We supply top-quality, reliable and secure IP Access Control Systems that adhere to the latest industry standards and have numerous partners and distributors across the world.

You can control most standard types of internal/external electronic door releases and physical security devices such as barriers and turnstiles making full use of location points, whether in full view or hidden out of sight using multi-factor authentication solutions.

Operated by contactless smart cards, key fobs or biometrics, Tensor IP Access Control System give you full control over who is allowed access through any controlled point at any time of any day, placing it at the forefront of security solutions.

Tensor Access Control is modular in design, and has the advanced capability of being able to be adapted and extended to integrate with a time and attendance system seamlessly and without complication.

If you would like to find out more about the extensive range of access control solutions supplied by Tensor, just contact us or Book a Demo, we would be more than happy to answer all of your questions and queries.