An automated system and method for authenticating entities or individuals attempting to access a computer application, network, system or device using a wireless device is provided. The system employs one or more short-range wireless interfaces (e.g. BLUETOOTH or Wi-Fi) or long-range wireless interfaces (e.g. cellular or WiMAX) to detect the presence or location of the wireless device and it's proximity to the secure system to be accessed. The wireless device incorporates a unique identifier and secure authentication key information associated with the user of the wireless device. An authentication result is generated and may be used for a variety of applications. The application may process the result and determine the degree of access for which the entity or individual is allowed.