Google introduces Passkeys while bidding goodbye to Passwords

Tech giant Google is taking the lead in the movement to replace the conventional password system by introducing passkeys. The new technological advancement will no longer need users to depend on typing in passwords to log in to accounts. Passkeys could be the long-awaited replacement for passwords for those who detest them as a simpler and more secure method of logging in. 

The two main drawbacks of passwords are the possibility of misuse or hacking, as well as having to remember complicated combinations. In addition, the risk to personal data is constant in our increasingly digital lives. Your other online accounts could be compromised if your website or online service leaks your passwords, posing a serious security risk. 

Compared to passwords and text-based confirmation codes, passkeys are a simpler and safer option. Furthermore, the reuse of passwords, writing them down on sticky notes, and password fatigue (creating weak passwords to remember, which makes them easier to hack), all put personal information at risk.  

Software-based password managers that can generate and store complicated passwords are effective security tools, but even they have a master password that needs to be safeguarded and kept in mind. 

Last year, by collaborating with the FIDO Alliance, Google announced that it was shifting focus to passkeys.  The tech giant rolled out support for passkeys across Google Accounts on all major platforms this year in May. This will be an additional option along with passwords such as 2-Step Verification (2SV), according to a Google blog post.