Explained: Advantages Of Switching From Passwords To Passkeys And How To Do It

There is a safer way to log in to apps and websites that does not require the use of passwords. It's known as a passkey, and corporations like Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, and Google, among others have already embraced the new technology.

Is a passkey different from a password?

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To access a website or app, a passkey uses a string of encrypted data saved on your phone or laptop, as well as verification from you via a face scan, fingerprint scan or PIN number. There is no exchange of passwords.

To access a website or app, a passkey uses a string of encrypted data saved on your phone or laptop, as well as verification from you via a face scan, fingerprint scan, or PIN number.

There is no exchange of passwords. "A passkey is a FIDO credential stored on your computer or phone, and it is used to unlock your online accounts," Google explained in an October blog post, referring to the new Fast IDentity Online, or FIDO, Alliance standard. "It works using public key cryptography and proof that you own the credential is only shown to your online account when you unlock your phone."

When did passkeys become popular?

Passkeys are becoming more popular as our digital privacy becomes more difficult to preserve, particularly when people are required to remember an increasing number of passwords.

According to a recent Pew Research survey, about 70% of Americans are concerned about the amount of passwords they must remember. Passkeys are also advantageous for businesses.

When their customers are the victims of cyberattacks, businesses may face large expenses, or even millions of dollars in fines if client data is compromised, to clean up the damage. Passkeys can reduce the likelihood of this happening.

How can it help?

Phishing is a type of fraud in which attackers attempt to deceive victims into providing personal information, usually via phone calls or emails, and then use that information to gain access to an account.

"Password-based attacks are becoming easier and more common," said Steve Won, chief product officer of 1Password, a company that uses passkeys. Bottom line: Passkeys secure your personal information better than passwords.

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