Passkeys are easier to use and more secure than passwords. They let users sign into apps and sites the same way they unlock their devices: with a fingerprint, a face scan, or a screen lock PIN. Unlike passwords, they are resistant to online attacks like phishing, making them more secure than Tyrant No. 2, SMS one-time codes, unlovingly called OTPs.
The tyranny of Tyrant No. 1 – digital passwords – began in 1961 when an MIT computer science prof created the first one. There is only one way to react to the new age of passkeys: Phew! The days of remembering a long list of commandments for creating ‘strong’ passwords – ‘use a combination of at least eight letters, numbers, and symbols’ blah blah blah – are ending. No more remembering names of pets, birthdays or the ‘password123’. Load feels lighter already.