New Delhi: Meta has introduced a passkey as the latest way to log in to Facebook, initially available for iOS and Android devices. This feature aims to make signing easier and more secure by replacing traditional passwords with biometric or device-based authentication.
What are these passkeys?
These passkeys are digital credentials that let users log in using a fingerprint, face recognition, or device PIN, the same method they use to unlock their phones. Developed by the FIDO Alliance, the technology is designed to resist phishing and password theft, offering a safer alternative to traditional logins and one-time codes.
Unlike passwords, passkeys can’t be guessed or reused, and then they’re stored securely on the device. This means that Meta will not have access to the user’s biometric data or PIN.
Now, how can users set up the passkey?
- Go to settings on Facebook
- Open the Account Center
- Look for the passkey option to create and manage it
The user may also be prompted to set up a passkey the next time they log in. Once it’s done, the user can log in seamlessly on the supported mobile devices. In the coming months, Meta announced that it would extend passkey support to Messenger, utilising the same login credentials. Down the line, users will, users will also be able to use passkeys to autofill payment information through Meta Pay and secure user-encrypted message backups. For now, passwords and other login methods will still work alongside passkeys, which is helpful if the user is using a device that doesn’t yet support the feature.
These passkeys reduce the chances of falling victim to phishing attacks or scam websites. By cutting out password-based logins, Meta says it’s offering another tool to safeguard user privacy and security. Meta joins a growing list of tech giants adopting passkeys, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, PayPal, and TikTok. These companies have integrated passkey support across devices and services to eliminate weak passwords and fight phishing attacks.
