Back in May, we learned that Passkeys would be the password’s replacement.
Passkeys will be available in iOS 16 in the coming months, according to reports. And we’re thrilled.
Though it has caused some confusion. Apple has gone to great lengths to market the Passkey, and it’s understandable that people have assumed it’s a feature only available from Apple.
That is not correct.
Passkeys will be used in a joint effort by Apple, Microsoft, and Google to improve online security. The reason Apple is pushing this new feature so hard is to get the message out there.
Microsoft and Google are also eager to spread the word about Passkeys so that people understand how they work.
Our businesses are more secure online as more people use Passkeys.
Passkeys, also known as FIDO authentication, allow you to log into an app or website using only your username and a pre-authenticated device, most likely your phone.
Your device creates a cryptographic token, which serves as the second component of a cryptographic key pair. When the pair matches, you’re allowed access to the app or website.
In practice, this means that when you log in, you simply use your phone to verify your identity. Simply unlock it with your face, fingerprint, or PIN.
It will work as long as your phone is within Bluetooth range of your computer.
And without the need for a password… bliss…
It’s a far more secure method of accessing apps and protecting your accounts from cyber criminals. Because you never see your cryptographic token, it eliminates much of the risk of having your login credentials stolen.
Cyber criminals will be unable to steal your credentials using traditional methods such as phishing emails, brute force attacks, or key loggers.
They’ll need your physical device, so remote hacking is unlikely.
When using Windows Hello, you will notice that Passkeys are already supported. And it won’t be long before all three tech giants offer support for their entire product line.
Before then, if you need any assistance or advice on keeping your apps and accounts secure, please give us a call.