Faces and Pictures: Understanding age differences in two types of graphical authentications

Recall of knowledge-based authentication codes such as passwords and PINs can be problematic, particularly for older adults given the known memory decline associated with ageing. We explored the extent to which recognition-based Graphical Authentication Systems were effective alternatives to PINs and passwords in a study in which users were asked to commit several different codes to memory and recall them at different time periods. Populations of younger and older adults were given face-based and picture-based authentication codes to remember over the course of three weeks. Results show a pronounced age effect, with younger participants outperforming older participants. Older participants fared better with the face-based system over the picture-based system while younger participants exhibited the opposite effect. A significant performance drop was observed for older participants over time, as additional codes were introduced.