Decentralized Identity Authentication Mechanism: Integrating FIDO and Blockchain for Enhanced Security

Abstract

FIDO (Fast Identity Online) is a set of network identity standards established by the FIDO Alliance. It employs a framework based on public key cryptography to facilitate multi-factor authentication (MFA) and biometric login, ensuring the robust protection of personal data associated with cloud accounts and ensuring the security of server-to-terminal device protocols during the login process. The FIDO Alliance has established three standards: FIDO Universal Second Factor (FIDO U2F), FIDO Universal Authentication Framework (FIDO UAF), and the Client to Authenticator Protocols (CTAP). The newer CTAP, also known as FIDO2, integrates passwordless login and two-factor authentication. Importantly, FIDO2’s support for major browsers enables users to authenticate their identities via FIDO2 across a broader range of platforms and devices, ushering in the era of passwordless authentication. In the FIDO2 framework, if a user’s device is stolen or compromised, then the private key may be compromised, and the public key stored on the FIDO2 server may be tampered with by attackers attempting to impersonate the user for identity authentication, posing a high risk to information security. Recognizing this, this study aims to propose a solution based on the FIDO2 framework, combined with blockchain technology and access control, called the FIDO2 blockchain architecture, to address existing security vulnerabilities in FIDO2. By leveraging the decentralized nature of the blockchain, the study addresses potential single points of failure in FIDO2 server centralized identity management systems, thereby enhancing system security and availability. Furthermore, the immutability of the blockchain ensures the integrity of public keys once securely stored on the chain, effectively reducing the risk of attackers impersonating user identities. Additionally, the study implements an access control mechanism to manage user permissions effectively, ensuring that only authorized users can access corresponding permissions and preventing unauthorized modifications and abuse. In addition to proposing practical solutions and steps, the study explains and addresses security concerns and conducts performance evaluations. Overall, this study brings higher levels of security and trustworthiness to FIDO2, providing a robust identity authentication solution.