Apple, Google, and Microsoft are Pushing Passkeys: Password-less Future?

Urian B., Tech Times 13 February 2023, 05:02 am

As major tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Google take the lead in fully integrating passkey technology into their platforms, passwords may become a thing of the past. Passkeys offer a more secure and convenient way of accessing online accounts and services without the risk of hackers or easy-to-remember passwords.

Alternative Authentication: The Future of Internet Security?

For years, internet security has relied heavily on passwords. From banks to streaming services and everything in between, many of our accounts require a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols to protect our data.

According to the story by Giz China, with Apple, Google and Microsoft's latest foray into passkeys, it looks like the days of password reliance may end. At its core, a passkey is essentially a form of two-factor authentication, but without passwords.

Secure and Convenient Logins with Verified Devices

This means that users can log in with a verified device instead of managing passwords for every account and platform. For instance, when they attempt to log into their Gmail, Apple ID, or Microsoft account, they will be sent a prompt which they must then verify either with a fingerprint, face scan or a pin.

The heightened security comes from the fact that every time users attempt to log in, the server will send a new challenge, making it incredibly difficult for hackers to access their accounts.

The Benefits of Passkey Technology for Improved Security

Furthermore, the mathematical relationship between their public key and their device's private key remains the same via encryption, ensuring that the person logging in is correctly identified. The features that come with passkeys are a welcome development, especially amidst the recent surge in password attacks.

According to Microsoft Digital Defense Report, the volume of password attacks has now risen to 921 attacks per second - a 74% increase from last year. This new technology eliminates the need to use the same password for different accounts, keeps hackers away, and removes the risk of human error in password settings.

Goodbye Passwords, Hello Passkeys: A Part of the Future of Online Security

Users may still be away from the full integration of passkeys. Still, the work Apple, Microsoft, and Google have been doing to push this new technology into the mainstream is already proving to be hugely beneficial to those looking for greater online security. Goodbye passwords, hello passkeys.

It is certain that passkeys are fundamentally more secure and will significantly reduce, if not entirely eliminate, the risks associated with online account access, as also explained in an article by CNBC.

With the rising volume of password attacks - currently at a 74% increase from the previous year, with 921 attacks per second - it's easy to see why passwords are no longer secure enough for the modern user. Passkeys are the way of the future and ensure secure, phishing-free digital experiences.