Overview
- Google is pressing all 1.8 billion Gmail users to phase out passwords and adopt passkeys through its Sign in with Google system.
- Passkeys leverage built-in device unlocking methods such as fingerprint or face recognition to block phishing and credential-stuffing attacks.
- Microsoft has already made passkeys the default authentication option for new Windows 11, Office 365 and Xbox accounts.
- Passkeys are stored on users’ devices and synced via password managers, removing centralized credential repositories that hackers can target.
- Adoption is uneven across generations, with digitally native Gen Z leading uptake while over 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers still rely on traditional passwords.