Random number generators (RNGs) are perhaps one of the unsung heroes behind many technologies. Whilst possibly best known for being behind digital entertainment options, they are the unlikely source behind a couple of the simplest and most cost-effective cybersecurity processes. Let’s take a look.
What are RNGs?
At it’s most basic, RNGs generate a randomized string of non-sequential numbers, letters, or special characters depending on the needs of the user. These systems essentially mimic the random outputs that someone would get from rolling a dice. For this reason, they are most commonly used in online casino games, especially slot games.
RNGs randomly dictate which symbols fall onto the reels, and the order in which they appear. In turn, this denotes when any bonus features are triggered or special symbols land on the reels. Furthering this, Megaways slots casino games such as Genie Jackpots, Great Rhino, and The Dog House also use RNGs to control the dynamic reels. RNGs randomly decide the behavior of the symbols, and how symbols are ordered in the cascading reels.
Similarly, RNGs are the backbone behind providing digital alternatives to traditionally in-person experiences such as bingo. Slingo mixes the mechanics of slot games with the gameplay of bingo. At the start of online slingo players are provided with a bingo card of randomized numbers or symbols, generated by an RNG. RNGs are also used to generate the order in which matching symbols appear, thus ensuring the experience is fair, immersive, and authentic.
So, how exactly can this technology be used for security?
Generate a Strong Password
Many people are guilty of creating a password using things in their real life, be it their birthday, name of their loved ones, or address. The first UK Cyber Survey found that 23.2 million worldwide victims of data breaches used 123456 as their password.
Keeping this in mind, RNGs generate secure passwords by creating a random combination of lowercase and capital letters, numbers, and special characters, matching the randomness of online casino game results. This reduces hacking risks by avoiding passwords that are too simplistic, predictable, or rooted in reality.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) goes hand in hand with a zero-trust policy. This means that systems will not trust a device or user until one or more external devices have authenticated their identity. Research from Microsoft found that more than 99.9% of compromised accounts did not have MFA, which left them vulnerable to hacking.
One of the most basic methods of MFA involves a system prompt upon login for users to enter a one-time code. An independent app or tailored device generates this code using RNGs to ensure unpredictability. Only the authentic user accesses this randomized code, bolstering the security policy and protecting the account even if someone guesses the password.
And there you have it – just a couple of simple ways that RNG-based software or apps can help businesses to implement a robust password policy and improve data security. This technology may be best known for its usage in an unlikely place, but businesses can easily and affordably use it to protect their systems.