Password Masking – Uncessary?
Jakob Nielson says so!
“Usability suffers when users type in passwords and the only feedback they get is a row of bullets. Typically, masking passwords doesn’t even increase security, but it does cost you business due to login failures.”
There are times when there are people looking over your shoulder when you enter your password. Perhaps you’re borrowing a friend’s computer to check your e-mail. Or even a stranger’s computer [yes, I have been asked by a stranger to use my computer to check their e-mail. I obliged.].
I do however see Jakob’s point that it is really annoying! The iPhone does a nice job of allowing you to see the letter until you type the next one it. It’s invaluable, and I assume if I actually used an iPhone keyboard on a regular basis it wouldn’t matter quite so much, but then again I couldn’t imagine not having it.
I’m torn, but I probably wouldn’t go as far to say that they are uncessary, especially with as secure information as banking or investment.