Passwords have long been the standard for securing online accounts, but they come with significant risks. Weak passwords, phishing scams, and brute-force attacks make them an easy target for hackers.
Every year, millions of credentials are leaked due to data breaches, leaving users vulnerable to identity theft and financial loss.
Aside risks of data breaches, entering passwords countless times can be annoying. We’ve all been there: trying to access an account and constantly receiving incorrect password feedback.
This is where passkeys come in. It offers a password-free authentication method with stronger security and convenience.
Big tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are migrating from passwords and encouraging the use of passkeys instead.
The Problem with Passwords
Passwords aren’t necessarily bad especially when combined with two-factor authentication. However, they are often subjected to password attacks such as password spraying and brute force attacks.
According to Microsoft, they block 7,000 attacks on passwords per second. That’s a lot if you think of it.
Traditional passwords have several flaws that put users at risk:
- Weak and Reused Passwords: Many people reuse passwords across multiple accounts, making it easier for hackers to gain unauthorized access.
- Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals can trick users into revealing their passwords through fake emails and websites.
- Credential Leaks: Major data breaches expose millions of passwords every year, giving attackers easy access to sensitive information.
- User Inconvenience: Managing multiple passwords is frustrating, leading to poor security habits like writing them down or using overly simple passwords.
What Are Passkeys?
Passkeys are secure ways of authenticating yourself without the use of a password. Think of it as a better, faster and more convenient way of logging into an account without compromising security.
With passkeys, you authenticate using fingerprint, face ID or PIN — something unique to you and your device.
How Passkeys Work
Passkeys use cryptographic keys securely stored on your device to authenticate you into any website or app.
After creating a passkey, here’s how it works:
- A unique private key is created and securely stored on your device.
- A public key is registered with the service you’re using (such as Google, Apple, or Microsoft).
- Authentication happens through biometric verification (Face ID, fingerprint) or a device PIN—no typing required.
Since the private key never leaves your device or stored on any company’s server, it remains protected from data breaches and all forms of password attacks.
The Benefits of Switching to Passkeys
Aside from enhanced security, passkeys provide a much smoother login experience:
- Ease of Use: No more struggling to remember complex passwords.
- Faster Logins: Sign in instantly with Face ID, Touch ID, or a PIN.
- Better Privacy: Unlike passwords, passkeys aren’t stored in central databases that hackers often target.
How to Start Using Passkeys
Passkeys are already supported by major tech giants and popular services such as Whatsapp, X, Google, Microsoft and others.
We will walk you through how you can enable on your Whatsapp, X, Google and Microsoft accounts. Let’s dive in.
How to Set Up Passkeys on Whatsapp
On Whatsapp, click on the three-dotted menu > Settings > Account > Passkeys.
Click “Create passkey” and proceed with the rest.
How to Set Up Passkeys on X
On X, tap on your profile > navigate to Settings & Support > Settings and Privacy> Security and account access > Security > Passkey.
Toggle on Passkey and proceed with the rest.
How to Set Up Passkeys on Your Google Account
Sign into your Google account > navigate to Security > Passkeys and security keys.
Authenticate yourself and proceed with the rest.
How to Set Up Passkeys on Your Microsoft Account
Sign into your Microsoft account > tap Security > Manage how I sign in > Add a new way to sign in or verify > Choose passkeys.
Authenticate yourself and proceed with the rest.
The Future of Passwordless Authentication
The shift toward passkeys is gaining momentum, with more websites and apps integrating passwordless login options.
Organizations worldwide are adopting FIDO Alliance and WebAuthn standards to promote secure authentication. As technology advances, we can expect wider adoption of passkeys, reducing reliance on traditional passwords and enhancing cybersecurity for individuals and businesses alike.
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