Passkeys are here, and they’re changing logins forever

Passkeys are now a hot topic at tech events worldwide, and more and more companies are turning to this secure and user-friendly login method. But we're also encountering them more and more in everyday life, e.g., at Google, Apple, eBay, and Amazon.

  By Manar Sadkou – Reading time: 3 min.
 

What are passkeys?

Passkeys are a secure alternative to traditional passwords. Instead of having to remember complicated combinations of letters, numbers, and special characters, you can use a passkey to access your online accounts easily and securely.

Think of it like a digital key that is automatically generated and confirms your identity. It consists of a combination of two parts:

1. A private and secret key that is stored securely on your device.
2. A public key that is stored with the online service.

This technology is based on so-called “cryptographic methods” that are particularly difficult to crack.

How does a passkey work?

Here’s how setting up a passkey usually works:

You register with an online service and create a passkey. Your device securely stores the private key on iCloud, for example, if you’re using an Apple device.

The next time you log in, you simply confirm your identity using a biometric method like your fingerprint, face ID, or a PIN. Your device then sends this confirmation to the online service, and you’re automatically logged in, no password needed.

Passkeys make logging in easier and more secure with facial recognition or fingerprint authentication.

If the option to set up a passkey isn’t available from a provider just yet, it likely will be soon, as more and more services are adopting this technology.

How to create a passkey?

Setting up a passkey is simple and straightforward, though the exact steps can vary slightly depending on the platform you’re using. Each platform uses its own built-in passkey generator to create and store these secure keys for you automatically. Here’s how to create a passkey for two of the most popular services:

Google passkey

1. Go to your Google Account settings at g.co/passkeys or under "Sign-in & security."
2. Click “Create a passkey.” You’ll be prompted to use your device’s biometric (Face ID, fingerprint) or screen PIN.
3. Confirm your identity with biometrics or PIN.
4. That’s it! Your passkey is saved securely on your device and backed up via your Google account or iCloud, depending on your setup.

Amazon passkey

1. Sign in to your Amazon account.
2. Go to “Login & Security” under Your Account settings.
3. Click “Set up” next to Passkeys.
4. Authenticate using biometrics or device PIN following the on-screen prompts.
5. You’re good to go! You can now log in to Amazon without typing a password.

Are passkeys safer than passwords?

The short answer: Yes, passkeys are definitely safer than passwords! Here’s why:

• No passwords to remember: Passkeys are stored securely on your device, so there’s no need to memorize or write down complex passwords anymore.
• No risk of phishing: Scam websites can’t trick you into handing over your passkey like they can with passwords.
• Built-in encryption: Passkeys use strong encryption, which means only your device can establish a secure connection.
• Safe even in data breaches: If a website gets hacked, your account stays safe. That’s because only the public part of the passkey is stored online, and that’s not enough to access your account.

So, should you switch to passkeys?

Passkeys are more secure, easier, and more convenient than traditional passwords. They offer great relief, especially for people who don't want to remember dozens of complicated passwords. You no longer have to worry about fraud or password theft and can secure your online accounts with just a few clicks.

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