BW Explains: Google Passkey - A Solution To ‘Remembering Your Password’

Is there anything more frustrating than forgetting a password? The seemingly trivial problem is resolved if the password is saved on a browser/app. But saving passwords always raise major concerns around security. To deal with such password-related conundrums, Google has come up with a solution. Let’s review it.

The tech company has been working on a simpler and safer alternative to passwords for some time and last year along with FIDO Alliance, Microsoft and Apple announced ‘Passkey’- an easier and more secure alternative to passwords.

What Is A Passkey?

A passkey is an easy way to unlock a digital account – apps and websites. It is linked to user accounts and permits them to get through their applications or accounts without entering a password. In simple terms, it is just like how one unlocks a smartphone using a security lock pin, fingerprint, or a face scan.

According to Google, unlike passwords, passkeys are more secure and resistant to online spam or attacks like phishing, making them more secure than even one-time passwords (OTPs).

When Was Passkey Rolled Out?

On 3 May 2023, ahead of World Password Day, Google began rolling out support for passkeys across Google Accounts on all major platforms and aims to reach all of its users by next year.

Why Is Passkey Safe?

Firstly, the key is saved on a user’s device. Secondly, it uses public key cryptography and ensures end-to-end encryption, making it a secure unlock technology that eliminates the possibilities of cyber phishing threats. Meanwhile, two-factor authentication (2FA) limits security breaches but it is susceptible to phishing. This makes passkeys the safer alternative.

How To Set A Passkey

Passkeys for Google Accounts are available now. One can try them by visiting g.co/passkeys. After verifying their Google account, a passkey can be easily set.