What are best practices for user authentication on Indian websites?
Implement Strong Password Policies
- Enforce minimum length and complexity requirements for passwords.
- Prohibit commonly used or breached passwords through dynamic checks.
- Provide real-time strength indicators during password creation.
- Encourage regular password changes with expiry alerts.
- Disable login after multiple failed attempts to prevent brute-force attacks.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Offer OTP-based verification through SMS or email, widely accepted in India.
- Enable app-based authentication like Google Authenticator or biometric logins.
- Use 2FA for sensitive operations such as payments or profile updates.
- Ensure fallback options are secure and do not compromise user privacy.
- Educate users on why 2FA is important and how to activate it.
Secure Session Management
- Use HTTPS for all user sessions to prevent data sniffing or hijacking.
- Regenerate session IDs after each login and logout automatically.
- Set session timeouts and automatic logouts for inactivity.
- Prevent simultaneous sessions from multiple locations unless authorized.
- Store session data securely on the server, not in local storage or cookies.
Use Captcha and Bot Protection
- Implement reCAPTCHA or custom challenges on login and registration pages.
- Prevent automated login attempts and fake account creation.
- Use invisible CAPTCHA methods for better user experience.
- Monitor and log unusual login patterns and IP activity.
- Combine CAPTCHA with rate-limiting to detect abuse.
Privacy and Compliance Controls
- Ask only for essential data needed for authentication and verification.
- Comply with India’s DPDP Act to safeguard user identity and consent.
- Provide users with account activity logs and access history.
- Enable users to easily update or delete their login credentials.
- Clearly display terms of use and data protection practices during signup.
