Using Behavioural Biometrics to Detect Account Takeover

Using Behavioural Biometrics to Detect Account Takeover

Account takeover (ATO) attacks are becoming more sophisticated, often bypassing traditional security controls like passwords and one-time codes. Stolen credentials, session hijacking, and phishing kits allow attackers to impersonate legitimate users with alarming accuracy. Behavioural biometrics adds a powerful layer of defense by continuously verifying identity based on how users interact with systems — not just what they know or possess.

By analyzing patterns such as typing rhythm, mouse movement, navigation behavior, and session context, organizations can detect account takeovers in real time and stop attackers before damage occurs.

How Behavioural Biometrics Prevent Account Takeover

1) Continuous Identity Verification

Unlike traditional authentication, behavioural biometrics operates throughout the entire session.

Benefit: Even if attackers log in successfully, abnormal behavior is detected immediately.

2) Detects Credential Abuse and Session Hijacking

Attackers rarely behave exactly like legitimate users.

Benefit: Subtle deviations in typing speed, navigation flow, or interaction patterns trigger alerts.

3) Reduces Reliance on Static Credentials

Passwords and tokens can be stolen, reused, or bypassed.

Benefit: Behavioural traits are extremely difficult to replicate or automate.

4) Enhances Risk-Based Authentication

Behavioural signals help security systems decide when to step up authentication.

Benefit: Suspicious sessions can be challenged, limited, or terminated automatically.

5) Improves User Experience

Most behavioural biometric analysis runs silently in the background.

Benefit: Stronger security without added friction for legitimate users.

Did you know?

Account takeover attacks increased by more than 90% in recent years, with most incidents involving valid stolen credentials rather than brute-force attacks.

Conclusion

Behavioural biometrics shifts account protection from one-time verification to continuous trust assessment. By identifying abnormal behavior in real time, organizations can stop account takeover attempts even after credentials are compromised. With BitLyft True MDR, businesses gain advanced behavioral analytics, automated response, and real-time visibility to detect and contain ATO threats before they escalate.

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