Passkeys: What they are and why you need them

In today’s digital age, remembering usernames and passwords for all your different online accounts can be a real hassle, especially when you’re trying to use strong, unique credentials for each platform. Fortunately, there’s a new sign-in method called Passkeys that promises to make things easier and more secure. 

Passkeys aim to replace traditional passwords with a better, more user-friendly approach using cryptographic keys that are more resistant to phishing attacks and brute-force attempts. So, in order to help you manage this new login security, here’s what Passkeys are and why having them on your devices can make a difference.

What are Passkeys?

Passkeys are a new way to sign in to apps and websites without using passwords. Unlike passwords, which can be easily hacked or phished, passkeys use the security features of your devices, like smartphones and laptops. Here’s how they work: when you create an account on a website or an app that supports passkeys, a unique digital key is generated on your device.

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This key is linked directly to your account and the platform, so you don’t have to remember or type anything. Logging in is as easy as unlocking your device with your fingerprint, face ID, PIN, or pattern and this verification confirms that it’s really you trying to access your account.

Passkeys eliminate the need for complex passwords and the risk of them being stolen, making online logins both faster and more secure.

Why do you need Passkeys?

The traditional password system for online account access is becoming increasingly inadequate. Data breaches and phishing attacks continue to compromise user security, highlighting the need for a more robust authentication method. Passkeys offer an effective solution by replacing passwords with digital keys stored on your device (phone, tablet or computer). They offer several key advantages:

1. Stronger security:

Passkeys are more secure than passwords because they stay securely on your device. Even if a website’s database is breached, hackers can’t access your accounts.

2. Easy and quick logins:

Passkeys offer a more convenient user experience. Unlike passwords, which need to be remembered and can be easily forgotten, passkeys take advantage of existing device security features. You can authenticate with your fingerprint, face ID, or PIN, eliminating the need to remember complex passwords.

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3. Stronger Cryptography:

Passkeys use secure public key infrastructure (PKI) and modern standards like FIDO2 and WebAuthn. These technologies ensure that your private key remains secure on your device, while only the public key is shared with servers for authentication.

All in all, passkeys provide better security, ease of use, and adaptability compared to traditional passwords, offering a powerful defence against evolving cyber threats and making logging into your accounts effortless.