Understanding Authentication vs Authorization

While often used interchangeably, authentication and authorization serve distinct security purposes that must both be properly implemented for comprehensive protection.

Authentication: Verifying the identity of a user - "Who are you?" Authorization: Determining what an authenticated user can access - "What are you allowed to do?"

Mobile-Specific Considerations:

Device ownership as an authentication factor
Biometric sensors availability
Limited screen space for complex inputs
Need for offline authentication
Session persistence across app launches
Multiple device synchronization