Google’s Passkey: The Future of Online Security
Google’s Passkey: The Future of Online Security
As of now, passwords are still required to log into various social media platforms and email services. However, Google's recent move suggests that passwords will become obsolete in the near future. The impending doom of passwords became more apparent when Google introduced its latest feature called Passkey. With this new approach, online service users will no longer have to rely on passwords.
"Passkeys are a new way to access applications and websites. They are easier to use and more secure than passwords, so users no longer need to depend on pet names, birthdays, or 'password123'," said Google's Group Product Manager, Christian Bran, and Senior Product Manager, Sriram Karra, in a blog post.
Users can use Passkeys in the same way as unlocking their mobile devices, such as scanning their fingerprint or face, or using a PIN on the screen.
They also claim that Passkeys are much more secure. Users no longer need to worry about online attacks such as phishing, which often allows attackers to hack into many victims' accounts.
Google has provided Passkeys as an option for all users by accessing g.co/passkeys. Meanwhile, for Google Workspace accounts, the option to activate Passkeys will soon be available upon signing in.
Previously, the company had shared this update on Chrome and Android, as well as with companies such as Docusign, Kayak, Paypal, Shopify, and Yahoo Japan.
However, this change does not mean that Google is completely abandoning password practices. The technology giant ensures that passwords and two-step verification can still be used for Google accounts.
The launch of Passkey comes just before World Password Day on May 4, 2023. Both Bran and Karra hope that next year's celebration can be enjoyed without passwords.
"So, perhaps on World Password Day next year, you won't even need to use a password, let alone remember it," they said.
As more and more online services move towards a password-free future, Google's Passkey may just be the first step towards a more secure and convenient way of accessing our online lives
