SURVEY FINDS 80 PERCENT OF RESPONDENTS AT RISK OF SECURITY BREACH AND IDENTITY FRAUD FOR USING THE SAME PASSWORD FOR MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS
Three Quarters of Respondents Want Voice Biometrics for Verification for Tighter Security
BURLINGTON, MASS. – November 8, 2011
WHAT: Nuance Communications, a leading provider of voice and language solutions for businesses and consumers, today announced results of a recently conducted Twitter survey focused on consumer perceptions of voice biometrics. The results of the survey found that consumers in general are enthusiastic about the idea of using their voice to authenticate their identity, particularly if the technology increases security.
This latest survey from Nuance found that 62 percent of respondents have more than 11 usernames and passwords, and that they forget their passwords between one and five times a month. Each time a password is forgotten it’s lost time that could be spent being more productive at work or at home. In addition, 74 percent of those surveyed have been blocked access to important information while using a mobile device because they could not remember their log-in information. The survey also found that 80 percent of respondents use the same password for multiple accounts if it fits the password criteria. The average consumer might not be aware that using the same password increases security risks and exposure to identity fraud.
“There are new reports about security breaches related to passwords on a weekly basis, making authentication processes more important than ever,” said Dan Nordale, vice president, enterprise marketing of Nuance Communications. “People should be very concerned about using the same password for multiple accounts, because if just one of their accounts is breached, then it’s highly likely that all of their accounts will be compromised.”
Nordale added, “Voice biometrics provide an added layer of security and, as part of a multi-factor authentication process, virtually eliminate the risks associated with using the same user name and password for multiple accounts. By simply using their voice and its unique voiceprint, consumers will have secure access to personal information and virtually eliminate forgotten passwords.”
A combination of voice and a password or PIN was preferred by 61 percent of those surveyed. And, 77 percent of respondents would be comfortable using voice biometrics if it meant tighter security.
WHO: Nuance Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: NUAN) is a leading provider of voice and language solutions for businesses and consumers around the world. Its technologies, applications and services make the user experience more compelling by transforming the way people interact with devices and systems. Every day, millions of users and thousands of businesses experience Nuance’s proven applications. For more information, please visit: www.nuance.com.
WHERE: For more details about the Twitter Poll or to speak with a Nuance executive, please contact Lora Friedrichsen of Global Results Communications at (949) 681-8122 or nuancecare@globalresultspr.com.
Nuance and the Nuance logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Nuance Communications, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States of America and/or other countries. All other company names or product names may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
