The passwordless revolution continues, with Google adding new features to its popular Chrome browser that will help you get rid of passwords for good.
In 2022, passwords are pretty outdated. With the first iteration being invented more than 50 years ago, it’s safe to say it’s time to move on from the security tool, particularly considering how ineffective it’s been at protecting users from security breaches and data hacks.
Fortunately, more and more tech companies are making it easier to ditch the password, and Google just took a big step in providing the passwordless alternative to everyday users.
Google Chrome Introduces Passkeys
Announced in a Chromium blog post, Google is reportedly adding passwordless functionality to its Chrome browser through the use of passkeys. The new security feature should be available for all users right now on Windows, Android, and iOS devices.
“To address these security threats in a simpler and more convenient way, we need to move towards passwordless authentication. This is where passkeys come in.” – Ali Sarraf, Product Manager for Chrome
For those unfamiliar with passkeys and passwordless functionality, it’s pretty simple. Rather than remembering a random collection of numbers, letters, and special characters to enter your accounts, you’ll be able to set up an authorized devices — most likely your primary smartphone. Then, you will get notifications from accounts you wish to log into to confirm its you, and bam! You’ll be logged in. Yes, it’s that easy. But is it secure?
Are Passkeys Safer than Passwords?
Passwords are a perfectly fine way to secure your accounts if you follow best practices. However, the average user doesn’t come close to abiding by those rules, with 85% using the same password for multiple accounts. Even worse, the most popular password in the world remains “password” for many users, which is one of the easiest passwords to hack.
But are passkeys and passwordless login any safer? Most experts would agree that they are a huge step in the right direction.
“Passkeys are a significantly safer replacement for passwords and other phishable authentication factors. They cannot be reused, don’t leak in server breaches, and protect users from phishing attacks.” – Ali Sarraf, Product Manager for Chrome
Because passkeys exclusively pass directly through your personal, authorized device, the ability to hack into accounts without physically stealing your phone is pretty hard. It’s like if multi-factor authentication was the primary means of logging into your account.
As a result, we can confidently say that passkeys are more secure than passwords. Still, if you have to use passwords, a good password manager will go a long way in helping you keep your accounts safe until you can go passwordless across all your accounts and devices.
