Govind Tekale
From Thursday, Passkey technology will be introduced to Google accounts by Google to replace passwords. Using passkey technology, authentication can be done with a fingerprint ID,facial ID, or pin on the phone or device used for authentication.
Apple and Microsoft have already started using the technology in their devices. One can create a passkey for each device, or the opera rating system or app used to manage the pass keys can be shared between devices by the users.
A cryptographic private key is stored on the device, and a corresponding public key is uploaded to Google. In order to generate a signature when a user signs in, a unique challenge is solved by the device using the private key.
Using the public key, access to the account is allowed by verifying the signature. Google can see only the signature generated and the public key. The passkey technology prevents people from obtaining passwords and bypassing authentication methods using phishing, SIM-swapping, and other methods.
As the passkey technology is still in its early stages, mass adoption across apps and websites is required. Passwords can be used by people with Google’s permission if a passkey-enabled device is not available. Google will pay closer attention to accounts using passwords as a sign of compromise. Passwords are widely considered one of the weakest online security options.
Using Google’s passkey technology, Google’s account holders are provided with an alternative log-in method. Passkeys and passwords are likely to exist in tandem for some time. Passkeys use biometrics like finger prints and facial scans to allow users to unlock their devices and log into their applications.
Google has already secured passkey relationships with applications such as Docksign, Kayak, Shopify, and Yahoo Japan. There is a unique passkey for each service a person uses. If a user loses his or her device with the passkey,access can be immediately revoked in account settings.
1 Password, one of the leading password manager apps, has welcomed the move by Google. According to a survey, 77% of respondents want a more secure way to log into their online accounts, despite users remaining wary of new security technology.
