Why Physical Cards Are Superior to Mobile Credentials
27 March 2025
In the evolving landscape of building security and access control, mobile credentials have gained popularity as a convenient and seemingly modern alternative to traditional physical access control cards. While mobile-based access control offers certain advantages, high-security buildings must prioritise reliability, security, and operational control. In these critical environments, physical access control cards continue to be the superior choice. Below, we delve into the key reasons why physical access control cards outperform mobile credentials when security is of paramount concern.
Reliability in Mission-Critical Environments
High-security buildings require access control systems that function flawlessly under all conditions. Physical access control cards have a proven track record of reliability, as they operate independently of internet connectivity, mobile device compatibility, and battery life. Mobile credentials, on the other hand, depend on factors such as smartphone functionality, operating system compatibility, and software updates, which introduce potential points of failure.
A lost, dead, or malfunctioning phone can prevent entry, causing delays and security risks. Additionally, network outages or mobile application malfunctions can compromise access control, making mobile credentials less dependable in mission-critical situations.
Stronger Protection Against Cyber Threats
Cybersecurity is a growing concern for access control systems, and mobile credentials introduce additional vulnerabilities. Smartphones are frequent targets for hacking, malware, and phishing attacks. A compromised mobile device could allow an attacker to gain unauthorised access to a high-security facility by cloning digital credentials or exploiting security loopholes.
Physical access control cards, particularly those using secure encryption technologies like MIFARE DESFire, such as the Remsdaq EntroPass, are more resistant to cyber threats. Because they operate independently from mobile networks and personal devices, the attack surface is significantly reduced. Unlike mobile credentials, which are often stored within apps that may be susceptible to breaches, physical cards do not expose credentials to online hacking attempts.
Reduced Risk of Insider Threats and Social Engineering Attacks
High-security environments must mitigate the risks of insider threats and social engineering. With mobile credentials, it is easier for employees or insiders to share access by sending digital credentials to unauthorised individuals. The ability to transfer mobile credentials remotely increases the likelihood of unauthorised access, either intentionally or inadvertently.
In contrast, physical access control cards are tangible and must be physically handed over. Security personnel can visually inspect cards, and policies requiring users to wear or display credentials can be enforced more effectively. This adds an extra layer of control that is absent with mobile-based systems. Physical cards area also often printed with a photo of the ID holder, providing an additional layer of security.
Better Management and Control Over Credential Issuance and Revocation
Managing access control credentials effectively is critical in high-security buildings. With physical access control cards, administrators can maintain tight control over issuance and revocation. If a card is lost or stolen, it can be quickly deactivated without reliance on third-party apps or mobile device settings.
Mobile credentials, however, introduce challenges in access management. Employees may have personal devices that lack proper security measures, and uninstalling or reinstalling an access app could lead to unauthorised retention of credentials. Additionally, organisations relying on Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies for access control may find it difficult to enforce security standards across different device models and operating systems.
No Dependency on Third-Party Software or Mobile Ecosystems
Physical access control cards operate independently of smartphone manufacturers, app stores, and operating systems. Mobile credentials, however, are tied to third-party mobile ecosystems that frequently change their security policies, user interfaces, and software requirements. If a mobile OS update disrupts the functionality of an access control app, users could be locked out until compatibility issues are resolved.
Additionally, reliance on mobile platforms means organisations must trust external vendors for updates and data security, which could introduce vulnerabilities outside their direct control. With physical cards, security teams maintain greater autonomy over access control infrastructure.
Durability and Longevity
Physical access control cards are designed to withstand years of use in various environmental conditions. High-security buildings often require credentials that are resistant to physical wear and environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and electromagnetic interference. Smartcards and proximity cards are built for durability, withstanding repeated swipes and exposure to harsh conditions.
Mobile devices, in contrast, are fragile, susceptible to damage, and frequently replaced. A broken or lost phone can cause disruptions in access, while a physical card is easily replaced without affecting personal communication and workflow.
Faster and More Efficient Authentication
Speed is critical in high-security environments, where efficient access control ensures smooth operations. Physical access control cards provide instantaneous authentication with a simple tap or swipe. They do not require users to unlock their phones, launch an app, or navigate through additional authentication steps, reducing potential entry delays.
Mobile credentials, while marketed for convenience, often involve additional steps such as biometric verification, NFC or Bluetooth connectivity activation, and app-based interactions. These extra processes slow down entry and create friction in high-traffic or emergency situations.
Lower Risk of Battery or Connectivity Failures
One of the most significant drawbacks of mobile credentials is their dependency on battery life and connectivity. A dead phone means no access, forcing security personnel to implement backup procedures that increase complexity and administrative burden.
Physical access control cards, on the other hand, require no power source and work in all conditions. Whether during a power outage, emergency evacuation, or extended work shift, a card remains functional, ensuring uninterrupted access control.
Better Integration with Multi-Layered Security Systems
High-security buildings often employ multi-layered security measures, including biometric authentication, surveillance, and visitor management. Physical access control cards can be seamlessly integrated with these systems, allowing for multi-factor authentication (MFA) setups that combine card-based access with PINs or biometrics.
While mobile credentials can also be used in MFA scenarios, they introduce additional challenges in managing interoperability across different security platforms. Physical cards provide a straightforward and standardised approach to integration.
Industry Standards and Regulatory Compliance
Many high-security industries, including government agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare facilities, have stringent compliance requirements for access control. Physical access control cards adhere to well-established security standards, such as FIPS 201 for government-issued credentials and ISO/IEC standards for smartcards.
Mobile credentials, while evolving, often face challenges in meeting regulatory standards, particularly concerning data privacy, credential storage, and security audits. Organisations operating in highly regulated environments benefit from the proven compliance framework that physical cards provide.
Conclusion
While mobile access credentials may offer convenience for general office environments, they fall short in high-security settings where reliability, cybersecurity, and operational control are paramount. Physical access control cards remain the gold standard for secure access management, offering durability, independence from third-party ecosystems, and strong protection against cyber and insider threats. For organisations prioritising security above convenience, physical access control cards provide the most robust and resilient solution for access control in high-security buildings. As technology advances, smartcards and encrypted physical credentials will continue to evolve, ensuring they remain the best choice for mission-critical access control applications.