Patterns and Colors: A Simple yet Innovative Way to Solve Pattern Tracking

Abstract

Authentication is one of the essential defense mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to our personal gadgets. Several authentication schemes have been proposed over the years, such as passwords, PIN and biometrics. Although there are many types of authentication methods equipped in our devices, they still have their limitations. This study compares the different types of commonly used knowledge-based authentication systems and identifies the shortcomings of these authentication methods by thoroughly exploring their vulnerabilities. In this study, we propose an innovative idea that modifies the existing pattern-lock authentication method by using a combination of patterns, colors and randomization to authenticate users to their mobile device. This proposed method can prevent unauthorized users from shoulder-surfing and analyzing the static repeated patterns drawn by users on their mobile devices.