Access control system with trusted third party

An access control system, comprising:

• a control device, which is disposed to restrict access to a secured resource;
• and
• a networked device, which is disposed in signal communication with the control device and configured to distribute an authentication application to a trusted device of a user to whom credentials for access rights are granted,
• wherein:
• the networked device requests that the trusted device authenticate the user by executing the authentication application in response to a presentation of the credentials to the control device in a request for access to the secured resource,
• the networked device is receptive of a positive or negative indication of the authentication of the user from the trusted device, and
• the control device permits a level of access to the secured resource in accordance with the access rights upon the reception of the positive indication of the authentication by the networked device.

A method of operating an access control system, the method comprising:

• receiving, at a control device disposed to restrict access to a secured resource, a presentation of credentials in a request for access to the secured resource;
• recognizing that the credentials are associated with access rights of a user;
• requesting an authentication of the user from a trusted device;
• and
• permitting a level of access to the secured resource in accordance with the access rights upon reception of the authentication.