AI-Powered Identity Verification: Beyond Passwords and into the Future

In this episode of Cyber Sentries, host John Richards sits down with Michael Engle, co-founder and CSO of 1Kosmos, to explore how AI is revolutionizing identity verification and authentication in cybersecurity. Mike brings decades of experience from Wall Street to modern startups, offering unique insights into the evolution of digital identity protection.

The Identity Crisis in Modern Security

Identity verification has become the new perimeter in cybersecurity, accounting for 80% of security problems. Mike explains how traditional methods like passwords and basic MFA are failing to meet current security challenges, especially as AI agents become more prevalent in our digital lives. 1Kosmos is tackling this through advanced biometric verification, behavioral analysis, and AI-powered authentication systems.

Questions We Answer in This Episode:

• How is AI changing the landscape of identity verification?
• What makes biometric authentication more secure than traditional methods?
• How can organizations transition from password-based to identity-based security?
• What role do digital wallets play in the future of identity verification?

Key Takeaways:

• Identity verification has replaced perimeter security as the primary security concern
• AI enables more sophisticated identity verification through behavioral analysis and pattern recognition
• Biometric authentication offers a more secure alternative to traditional passwords and MFA
• Digital wallets are emerging as the future of portable, verified identity

The Future of Digital Identity

Looking ahead, Mike discusses 1Kosmos's work on digital wallets and universal identity verification systems. These innovations aim to create reusable, trusted identities that can work across multiple platforms while maintaining security through biometric verification and AI-powered fraud detection.

Links & Notes

• Learn more about Cyberproof
• Learn more about 1Kosmos
• Got a question? Ask us here!

• (00:04) - Welcome to Cyber Sentries
• (01:03) - Meet Michael Engle
• (03:03) - Identity Threat
• (04:09) - With AI
• (05:50) - What 1Kosmos Does
• (12:48) - Adapting with AI
• (15:42) - Protecting Credentials
• (26:36) - Passkey Challenges
• (28:12) - AI-Driven Development
• (32:18) - What’s Next for 1Kosmos
• (34:40) - Learning More
• (35:42) - Wrap Up