What is passkey security? Should I use it?
Passkey security eliminates passwords by using cryptographic key pairs, making it simpler and safer to log in. Instead of remembering complex passwords, you can use biometrics (like fingerprints) or PINs to access accounts. The private key stays on your device, while only the public key is shared with the server, reducing risks like phishing and credential theft.
Key Benefits:
- Stronger Security: Passkeys are resistant to phishing and credential stuffing.
- Simpler Login: Use biometrics or PINs instead of typing passwords.
- Reduced Risk: Servers store non-sensitive public keys, not passwords.
By 2026, major platforms like Apple, Google, and Microsoft already support passkeys, making them a practical choice. Whether you’re securing business systems or personal accounts, passkeys offer better protection and a smoother experience. If you’re tired of managing passwords or worried about security breaches, passkeys could be the solution you need.
Why Passwords Are a Security Risk
Password Security Weaknesses
Passwords come with a host of vulnerabilities that attackers exploit every day. One of the most effective methods is phishing. Shockingly, it takes less than 60 seconds for the average user to fall for a phishing email. Attackers often trick employees into revealing their credentials through fake websites or spoofed emails that appear legitimate.
Another major threat is credential stuffing. With access to over 15 billion credentials circulating on the dark web, attackers take advantage of the fact that 51% of people reuse passwords. This means a single compromised password can unlock access to multiple services.
The way passwords are stored also creates risks. Many organisations use centralised databases to store password hashes. If attackers breach one of these databases, they can gain access to thousands of credentials. Using advanced computing power, they can then crack these hashes to reveal plain-text passwords.
Even multi-factor authentication (MFA) isn’t foolproof. Attackers have adapted with tactics like SIM swapping to intercept SMS codes, push fatigue to trick users into approving access, and Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM) proxies that steal session tokens in real time. These evolving methods highlight how even layered security measures can fall short when passwords remain at the core.
Ultimately, these technical flaws translate into significant risks for businesses.
Business Consequences
“Passwords are the root cause of over 80% of data breaches, with up to 51% of passwords being reused.” – FIDO Alliance
The financial impact of a breach is staggering, with the average cost now reaching £3.8 million. Beyond the immediate monetary loss, organisations face regulatory penalties, legal fees, and the costs of notifying affected customers.
Human error plays a significant role, contributing to 68% of breaches. This isn’t necessarily due to negligence but rather the unrealistic expectation that people can manage dozens of unique, complex passwords while staying alert to increasingly sophisticated attacks.
IT departments also face an immense workload due to password management. Tasks like handling password resets, providing help desk support, and enforcing security policies consume a huge amount of time and resources. These operational challenges stem directly from the weaknesses of password-based systems. Meanwhile, 59% of users still rely solely on passwords for accessing their work accounts or computers, leaving businesses vulnerable to attacks that stronger authentication methods could prevent.
What Are Passkeys and How Do They Work?
Passkeys vs Passwords Security Comparison
Passkey Basics
Passkeys are cryptographic keys based on the FIDO standard, designed to replace passwords entirely. They work by creating a unique public–private key pair for each account. The private key stays securely on your device, while the public key is stored on the website’s server. When you log in, your device proves ownership of the private key without ever exposing it. This means there’s no shared secret stored on a server that hackers can steal.
“Passkeys are a replacement for passwords that are designed to provide a more convenient, more secure, password-less sign-in experience on websites and apps.” – Apple
Passkeys come in two forms: synced passkeys and device-bound passkeys. Synced passkeys are stored in cloud services like iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager, allowing you to access them across multiple devices. On the other hand, device-bound passkeys are stored on hardware security keys, such as a YubiKey. These cannot be copied or synced, making them particularly suitable for environments requiring high levels of security.
Now, let’s explore how this technology works to protect your accounts.
How the Technology Works
When you register for an account, your device generates a key pair. The public key is sent to the website’s server (known as the Relying Party). When you log in, the server sends a random challenge to your device. To respond, you unlock your device using biometrics (like a fingerprint or face scan), a PIN, or a pattern. Your device then uses the private key to sign the challenge, which the server verifies using the stored public key.
One of the standout features of passkeys is their domain-specific nature. They are tied to the website where they were created, ensuring they can’t be used on fake or phishing sites. Your browser will only present the passkey if the domain matches exactly, making phishing attempts ineffective.
“The system would never present the credential to the wrong site, thus defeating the essence of phishing.” – Passkey Central
Passkeys also integrate multi-factor authentication into a single step. They combine “something you have” (your device) with either “something you are” (biometrics) or “something you know” (a PIN). This approach significantly reduces the risks associated with traditional password systems.
The table below highlights the key differences between passwords and passkeys.
Passkeys vs Passwords: A Comparison
| Feature | Passwords | Passkeys |
|---|---|---|
| Security Model | Shared secret stored on server and remembered by user | Asymmetric cryptography, with private key remaining on the user’s device |
| User Experience | Requires memorisation and manual entry | Uses biometrics or PIN, similar to unlocking a phone |
| Phishing Resistance | Low – passwords can be entered on fake sites | High – passkeys are tied to specific domains |
| Credential Stuffing | High risk due to password reuse | Immune – unique key pairs for each site |
| Server-Side Risk | High – sensitive data stored on servers | Low – only public keys (non-sensitive) are stored |
| Multi-Factor | Requires extra steps like SMS or OTP apps | Built-in, combining device and biometric/PIN authentication |
| Device Sync | Manual or via password manager | Automatic via platform providers like iCloud or Google Password Manager |
The advantages are clear: passkeys not only improve security but also simplify the login experience. They’ve been shown to result in 20% more successful sign-ins compared to traditional passwords, while avoiding the vulnerabilities that account for over 80% of data breaches.
Benefits and Uses of Passkey Security
Business Advantages
Passkeys tackle some of the most critical vulnerabilities in cybersecurity, significantly lowering the risk of data breaches. In fact, these vulnerabilities contribute to over 80% of breaches. By integrating passkeys, businesses aren’t just adding another layer of security – they’re addressing the root causes of these risks.
The potential financial savings are substantial. In 2025, the average cost of a data breach involving stolen credentials was estimated at £3.8 million. Passkeys not only help organisations sidestep such losses but also reduce ongoing costs. For instance, they eliminate expenses tied to SMS-based one-time passwords and cut down on helpdesk calls for password resets or account lockouts.
“Passkeys are a primary factor that – standing alone – are more secure than the combination of either ‘password + OTP’ or ‘password + phone approval’.” – FIDO Alliance
Passkeys also simplify the authentication process. By relying on biometrics or PINs, they make logins up to 50% faster, removing the hassle of remembering complex passwords . This method combines “something you have” (your device) with “something you are” (biometrics) or “something you know” (a PIN), all in one seamless action. The result? Enhanced security with less effort for users.
These benefits open up a wide range of practical applications, which we’ll dive into next.
Business Applications
Passkeys can be smoothly integrated into a variety of business systems, offering both security and convenience. For example, if you’re building a SaaS platform, adding passkey functionality not only strengthens security but also improves user experience. Faster registration and login processes can reduce drop-offs during onboarding, boosting conversion rates.
For developers creating custom authentication systems using frameworks like Spring Boot or Grails, passkeys can be implemented through the WebAuthn API. This approach stores only public keys on the server, ensuring that even if the database is compromised, attackers cannot exploit the data.
In high-security scenarios, such as privileged access management, device-bound passkeys on hardware security keys (like YubiKeys) are highly effective. Using FIPS-certified hardware keys for administrative or financial accounts can prevent account takeovers, even in cases where cloud credentials are exposed.
Federated authentication is another area where passkeys shine. Instead of deploying them in every individual application, businesses can integrate passkey support at the Identity Provider level. Systems like Microsoft Entra ID or Okta can then extend these security benefits across all federated applications.
In shared device environments – think retail counters or healthcare workstations – device-bound passkeys on USB or NFC security keys offer a practical solution. This setup allows employees to authenticate securely on shared systems without leaving behind any residual credentials.
Should You Use Passkey Security?
Assessing Your Needs
Before diving into passkey security, it’s important to determine whether it fits your organisation’s specific needs. Start by examining your risk profile and the devices in your ecosystem. For industries like finance, healthcare, or any role managing privileged access accounts, device-bound passkeys on FIPS-certified hardware keys provide top-tier protection for sensitive data. On the other hand, for employees with less stringent security requirements, synced passkeys offer a solid defence against phishing while also making recovery more straightforward.
Make sure your devices are compatible with modern operating systems such as Windows 10/11, iOS 16+, macOS 13+, or Android. Older systems may need upgrades to support passkeys. Also, check whether your Identity Provider (IdP) or Single Sign-On (SSO) system supports WebAuthn. Adding passkey functionality at the IdP level can enhance security across all federated applications.
Shared device environments present unique challenges. Since platform-based passkeys are tied to individual user profiles, they can be impractical in places like retail counters, healthcare workstations, or shift-based setups. In these cases, physical security keys, like YubiKeys, are a better option. They allow employees to securely authenticate on shared systems without compromising security.
Recovery plans are another critical factor. Synced passkeys simplify recovery through cloud services like Apple, Google, or 1Password. However, device-bound keys require backup keys or manual recovery processes. For crucial accounts, it’s wise to register at least two passkeys – perhaps one on a phone and another on a hardware key – to avoid being locked out.
Once you’ve evaluated these considerations, you’ll be ready to move forward with a structured implementation plan.
How to Implement Passkeys
Rolling out passkeys should be done in stages. Begin by assessing your organisation’s requirements, selecting the right solutions, and establishing clear policies. Then, focus on the technical integration and provide training for your team. For accounts with elevated privileges, like Global Admins or Security Admins, enforce the use of device-bound passkeys on hardware tokens to guard against cloud-account breaches.
If your Identity Provider supports WebAuthn, start by integrating passkey support there. Configure Conditional Access policies to require FIDO2/WebAuthn authentication and block weaker, phishable methods like SMS codes or standard push notifications. For older or custom-built systems that don’t support standard SSO, you may need to develop bespoke solutions to integrate the WebAuthn API directly into your applications. This approach stores only public keys on your server, ensuring that even in the event of a database breach, your credentials remain secure.
During the transition, keep existing authentication methods active to accommodate users with outdated hardware or browsers. Take your time with the rollout – rushing could lead to user frustration and unintended security issues. A gradual, well-planned implementation ensures both security and user satisfaction.
Conclusion
Passkeys are transforming the way businesses handle authentication. By replacing traditional passwords with cryptographic key pairs, organisations can tackle persistent vulnerabilities like phishing and credential stuffing head-on. This isn’t a concept for the future – it’s already here. With native support across all major operating systems and browsers by 2026, passkeys are ready for enterprise-level use.
The advantages are clear: passkeys improve sign-in success rates while cutting operational costs. Eliminating the need for password resets and reducing the risks tied to breaches means organisations save money and minimise liabilities. Since servers only store public keys, any database breach no longer exposes sensitive credentials – drastically reducing potential damages and recovery expenses.
Transitioning to passkey security is simpler than it may seem. Start by identifying which applications support WebAuthn and focus on securing high-risk accounts with device-bound passkeys. Gradually roll out synced passkeys across user groups while keeping existing authentication options in place during the shift.
With stronger security, easier access, and lower costs, adopting passkeys is both a smart and practical move. Tucanoo Solutions Ltd is here to help. Our team specialises in integrating WebAuthn and FIDO2 protocols into your systems, whether you’re using federated Identity Providers or custom-built applications. We provide support through security assessments, technical implementation, and the migration to phishing-resistant, passwordless solutions.
Contact Tucanoo Solutions Ltd today to explore how passkeys can revolutionise your organisation’s authentication strategy. Secure your systems and prepare for the future of authentication.
FAQs
What happens if I lose my phone or laptop with my passkeys?
If you lose the device that holds your passkeys, recovering access to your accounts will require using the recovery options offered by the service. This process usually involves extra verification steps to confirm your identity. Passkeys are designed to be highly secure – they’re stored on specific devices and are resistant to phishing attempts, offering strong protection even if your device is lost. To avoid disruptions, make sure you have access to backup or recovery methods for easy account recovery.
Can passkeys work across my work devices and shared PCs?
Passkeys are generally tied to specific devices, but they can be synchronised through cloud services, enabling secure access across multiple devices. This makes them particularly useful in work environments. On shared PCs, users can still rely on passkeys stored in the cloud, provided they authenticate using the device’s security features, such as biometrics or PINs. This approach strikes a balance between convenience and security, making it a practical solution for enterprise settings.
Do I still need MFA if I switch to passkeys?
Passkeys are an added layer of security, but they don’t eliminate the need for multi-factor authentication (MFA). While passkeys offer protection against threats like phishing and credential breaches, they work best when combined with other security measures. Using multiple layers ensures a stronger defence against potential attacks.
