Why I’m Finally Ditching Passwords for Passkeys
▼ Summary
– Passkeys are a more secure alternative to passwords, designed to prevent breaches and phishing attacks through encrypted private keys.
– Adoption of passkeys is inconsistent across websites, with each implementing them differently and often keeping passwords as a backup.
– Users still need to retain passwords and multifactor authentication for account recovery and setting up passkeys on new devices.
– Passkeys offer phishing protection by helping users verify they are on legitimate sites, as scammers cannot replicate passkey requests.
– Despite their benefits, passkeys currently create a messy and confusing user experience due to fragmented implementation and reliance on existing password systems.
Making the switch to passkeys feels like stepping into a confusing new world of digital security. While the promise of a passwordless future is appealing, the current reality is far from seamless. Many of us are being nudged, or outright nagged, by websites to adopt this technology, but the experience often leaves users scratching their heads rather than feeling more secure.
My own journey into passkeys began after repeated prompts from several sites I frequent. I had this notion that passkeys would completely replace the old username and password system. That turned out to be a misconception. Instead of replacing passwords, passkeys often exist alongside them, creating a hybrid login environment that can be more complicated, not less.
A few years back, I gave passkeys a quick try and abandoned them almost immediately. The process felt clunky and poorly explained. This time around, I assumed things would be smoother given how much time has passed and how many platforms are pushing them. I started with a major financial site where I already used two-factor authentication. Setting up the passkey was straightforward, and I logged in without a hitch. Encouraged, I removed my old authentication method, thinking I’d fully upgraded. But when I tried to log in again, I was surprised to see both password and passkey options available. My username and password still worked, and without the second factor I’d just deleted.
Confused, I reached out to a colleague well-versed in passkey technology. He explained that every site implements passkeys differently. Some allow something called syncable passkeys, which work across devices, while others use device-bound passkeys that are tied to a single gadget. PayPal, for example, requires a unique passkey for each device. If you want to add a new phone or laptop, you’ll need to log in with, you guessed it, your username and password. So in many cases, you can’t fully ditch passwords even if you want to.
This inconsistency is frustrating, but there’s a compelling reason to use passkeys anyway: phishing protection. When a site where you’ve set up a passkey asks for a password instead, it could be a sign you’re on a fake login page. Scammers can’t replicate passkey authentication, so this extra layer acts as a built-in scam detector.
I’ve decided to enable passkeys wherever they’re offered, not because the process is perfect, but because it adds a useful security check and reduces login friction for supported sites. I’m keeping all my existing passwords and two-factor methods active though. Passkeys aren’t a replacement for good security habits, they’re a supplement.
If you’re considering making the move, here’s my advice: enable passkeys when you see the option, but don’t disable your other login methods. Keep using strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication where available. Treat passkeys as an added convenience and a phishing deterrent, not a magic bullet. The technology is still evolving, and widespread adoption will likely iron out many of the current wrinkles. Until then, a little patience, and a healthy dose of skepticism, will go a long way.
(Source: ZDNET)
