Text messages replace security tokens for network access

I remember when we used to host with Colt Telecom, ages ago, I was really annoyed at having to carry my little credit card sized token ID everywhere, just in case I needed to access the servers when I was out and about.

I see they’ve managed to evolve the tokens into smaller key-ring sized devices, but it’s still a major pain. And a necessity if you’re keen on security.

The London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council, UK, has done away with the tokens and implemented a text-a-token system instead. It’s expected to cut costs by 20% and should make things a lot easier to use , maintain and monitor. Plus it takes the responsibility of looking after tokens away from the end user (“woops, sorry, I lost my token… you’d like me to fix that server? Well, I’d love to but I lost my token… so…”)

It’s SecurEnvoy we should thank for the introduction of this new service.

All is good, provided users don’t store their username and password details on their handset in an address book entry or the like.

(Via Computing)