Dr. Kenneth P. Weiss, a pioneering entrepreneur, human factors engineer, and esteemed inventor, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on February 8, 2025. The father of multi-factor authentication, Ken’s influence on computer security and his genius behind his SecurID invention is felt today every time we use our phones or computers to secure sensitive information, from bank accounts to social media.

He leaves behind a legacy of generosity in both spirit and technological advancement for the betterment of mankind.

Son of the late Melvin and Mary (Press) Weiss, Ken was born in Lynn, Massachusetts in 1942 and showed an early sense of perpetual curiosity and love for learning (although he admittedly was never a good student.) He grew up in Swampscott, a proud graduate of Swampscott High School Class of 1960, and was recognized as a brilliant entrepreneur from a young age. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Bridgeport. He pursued graduate studies and research at the University of New Hampshire and Temple University, earning a doctorate from the Neotarian Fellowship.

From 1975 to 1983 the now Dr. Weiss (Ken), was President and CEO of Contax Systems, a manufacturer of human-engineered, computer-aided dispatching systems. In 1984, he founded Security Dynamics Technologies Inc., serving as CEO until 1986 and subsequently as chairman of the board and CTO until 1996. His visionary leadership led to the acquisition of RSA Security in 1993, a pivotal move that expanded the company’s influence in internet commerce.

Under his guidance, Security Dynamics developed and marketed the SecurID Card and RSA encryption technologies, setting new standards in computer security and identity authentication. That technology revolutionized digital security as we know it today. His invention, the SecurID, is used by the United States government as well as most Fortune 500 companies and the governments and major corporations in more than 30 countries. He took his company public in 1994. You can draw a straight line from the SecurID’s constantly-changing numeric display to the now-ubiquitous one-time codes we all use to access sensitive information including our bank accounts.

Beyond his corporate and scientific achievements, Dr. Weiss was a dedicated educator and mentor, teaching at institutions including Penn State, the University of Bridgeport, Nasson College, and King’s College, where he chaired the psychology department for seven years. He also contributed to the academic community as a member of the editorial board for the Journal of Information Systems Security and as chairman of the identification and authentication division of the American Defense Preparedness Association’s committee on computer security.

A prolific inventor, Dr. Weiss held more than 30 U.S. patents in addition to a personal trademark on practicality when it came to how he approached any challenge in life. His critical analysis of the Clipper chip initiative in 1994 highlighted its significant flaws, which influenced the eventual abandonment of the program and underscored his commitment to privacy and ethical considerations in technology.

Dr. Weiss’ passion for sailing stemmed from his teen years as a launch boy at the Boston Yacht Club in Marblehead. He realized a life-long dream in 1999 when he purchased and refit Gitana, a 118ft Perini Navi sailing yacht that he used to explore the world for nearly a decade. She was meticulously crafted, feverishly loved and the only registered megayacht berthed in Massachusetts waters.

At the time of his passing Dr. Weiss divided his time between Newton and Gloucester, where he was a member of the Eastern Point Yacht Club. He was the founder and CEO of Universal Secure Registry (USR) and USR ID Inc, where he continued to innovate in identification, authentication, and mobile phone applications.

His philanthropy enriched cultural and community organizations, including the Cape Ann Symphony, Rockport Chamber Music Society, Gloucester Stage Company, and the Cape Ann Historical Association. He was a steadfast supporter of healthcare institutions: Mass General Brigham, Addison Gilbert and Beverly Hospitals, and the Lahey Clinic. Dr. Weiss held a soft spot for his treasured Golden Retrievers who roamed his estates and slept by his feet for decades. A true humanitarian, Dr. Weiss provided benevolences to any one in his life who was in need. From offering to host charitable events to lending sage advice to extending generosity, he could be relied on to come through when friends or long-time acquaintances faced their most difficult challenges.

Dr. Weiss was best described as kind and fiercely loyal with a genial wit. He is survived by his beloved Ashton Zarna, nephew Clayton Weiss and niece Mira (Weiss) Kucharsky and her husband David. He proudly watched his grandnephew Jeffrey Kucharsky and grandniece Lindsey Kucharsky grow into accomplished and kind teenagers. He is also survived by long-time advisor and cherished friend Arthur Hagopian. Those who resided under his roof will feel his absence deeply: namely his devoted staff and his faithful dog Watson. His closest connections will remember him not only for his professional accomplishments, but also for his generosity, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to advancing technology for the betterment of society.

Dr. Weiss touched and improved thousands of lives. He made the most unconventional outsider feel welcome. He invited people into his world to share his good fortune and the fruits of his success. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the fields of technology, education, and philanthropy. He will be greatly missed.

Dr. Weiss was interred at Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston, after a private funeral. Memorial donations in his honor may be made to Four Dogs Senior Animal Rescue, Foster, RI.

Tributes

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Ken was kind enough to bring me into a world and countless occasions that, a person my background would not usually have been privy to. He always made me feel welcome. He always made me feel as though I belong.

Ken was a dear friend to both of us and to our family. We shared so many fun times with him and he was always incredibly kind to us.  We will miss his intellect, generosity and love that he shared with us. He was a true gentleman … Truly one of a kind. … He was especially kind to both of my parents and treated them with respect and kindness.

I am deeply sorry to hear about Ken’s passing. He was a remarkable person … His dedication, kindness, and humor left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Drew said it best …  When Ken arrived, fun was sure to follow.  We were always excited when we got to see Ken. Mike Prozan

I had the great privilege of working on Gitana … that experience changed my life in many ways. Ken’s kindness, his trust in me, and the freedom he gave me … left a lasting mark on my journey. His unwavering support at the shipyard to help me succeed surely shaped my self-confidence and inspired me to aim even higher.

Capt. Jean Dumarais

I am so saddened to learn of Ken’s passing. He was an incredible individual,  so humble a man, and a friendly welcoming neighbor … Early on he welcomed my son to  his home to view  his  amazing tech workspace and  his  knowledge of  advanced technology, which they both shared. I cherish the times I was fortunate  enough to join him in a sail on his yacht, a party at his home, or a chat at Eastern Point Yacht Club.  To me, he was larger than life, a true friend, and I feel so fortunate to have known him.  I’d like to extend my sincere sympathy to his family and to all of those closest to him.  He will be  sorely missed.  RIP Ken. Lois Budrose

I remember many wonderful things about Ken.  How much he loved his nieces, how much he loved his dogs, how much he loved Ashton and how much he loved his friends.  We shared many happy dog times together and happy times at his home.  He was a gracious man, I recall his forgiving laughter when I trampled his garden on his Segway. I remember when he showed up at our home with gifts for our new puppy.  We were lucky to have him as a friend and neighbor.  I will miss him. I write this with great affection. Suki Agusti

… We have many beautiful memories with our family and friends together. I will miss him.   …  He was helpful when his cousin Michael was so sick, even after Michael’s passing, he gave me much encouragement to me to speak to the hospital so others would have easier time. Ken never missed a year with his Christmas cards. He gave me the title of host for several family parties, making me feel extra special. Very kind of him to do that. …. We loved Ken unconditionally. I was so happy for having the opportunity to let him know I loved him. This gives me some peace in my heart. … Our hearts are full with love for all left behind. May we continue our family connections and share happy memories together always. Anne Press

We greatly enjoyed our times with Ken  —sailing with him on Gitana , New Years parties at his wonderful home on Eastern Point, business-related meetings in Newton —  and who can forget the haunted house costume party next door” We remember all the good times and will miss his stimulating company.

I’m in tears

Ken was a fascinating and principled man, traits that are not so evident these days in our society.

I really enjoyed the challenges Ken gave me to work out for almost 30 years. I will miss him and I’m sure many others will too.

I enjoyed, his intellectual prowess and sense of goodness and humor.

Ken was an incredible person who had a wonderful impact on my life. … My sincerest condolences to you and his family and friends.

I was told something once by a WWII Chief Petty Officer in the US Navy: when the time comes and you can hold up one hand and say you had five good friends in life, you were a very rich person.

Ken had so many friends who truly made him the man he was. My family grew to know Ken as a good friend, and we are better for his friendship

RIP my friend, and till we meet again, you will be missed/

Mike McLeod and family

Mike McLeod

Ken was such a lovely man. I remember him with such fondness. The beautiful flowers he sent when Caden was born. His staunch opinion that all boys should have a dog (and mine did which delighted him). His love of Slim Jims as well as fine dining. I will never forget his words at the end of our trial so many years ago “well, that was an expensive civics lesson”. I am grateful to have worked with him. Even though our contact was limited over the past years, I loved getting a surprise text from him every now and again as I crossed his mind. And I did the same as he did mine. I will miss him.

– Julie LaFave

Ken, thank you for keeping in touch with me all these years since 1996. Your influence on my life has been nothing short of pivotal. Your kind words and advice over the years Ii will never forget. The holiday cards you sent me every year brought me great happiness. To think someone so GREAT thought i was worth remembering. You made me feel validated. Ken, your on your biggest adventure now in spirit. Now you know how much i always loved you. See you soon! As you know…we all end up together in the end.
Ken, thank you for keepping in touch with me all these years since 1996. Your influence on my life has been nothing short of pivitol. Your kind words and advice over the years i will never forget. The holiday cards you sent me every year brought me great happiness. To think someone so GREAT thought i was worth remembering. You made me feel validated. Ken, your on your biggest adventure now in spirit. Now you know how much i always loved you. See you soon! As you know…we all end up together in the end.
– Armando Max Benavidez

I have worked for Ken 30 plus years. Taking care of his plumbing heat heating and AC. He treated me with so much respect and gave me valuable information every time I worked at the estate. He gave me advice one day that truly changed my life for the better. One of the best compliments I got from any client was he told me he trusted me and valued my craft. I’m very grateful to have known him.
– Tommy McGovern

In Loving Memory of Ken

How do you say goodbye to someone who was not just a friend, but a part of my soul. Ken’s kindness knew no bounds, and his unwavering support was a constant source of comfort to me throughout the years that I had the pleasure of knowing him.

Whether through his ability to listen without judgment, or his deep wisdom, he made everyone feel valued. He had a rare gift of seeing the best in people and bringing it to the surface.

Though my heart aches in his absence,  I find solace in the memories we shared—moments that will forever live in my heart. Ken touched our lives in ways words can scarcely express, and his legacy will continue to inspire me every day. I am truly better for having known him.

Rest in peace, Ken. You will never be forgotten, and you will always be loved.

Thank you Ken for so many great memories. We always looked forward to our annual family BBQ in Gloucester. Your generosity and kindness will not be forgotten. We miss and love you.
– Eli, Andre, Adele and Jovi

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