Millions of people are being given a simpler and more secure way to access government services online as passkeys are rolled out across GOV.UK One Login.
More than 23 million users will be able to use a fingerprint, facial recognition or their device PIN to sign in instead of entering a password and two-step verification code.
The government says passkeys can make signing in up to eight times faster while providing greater protection against phishing and other cyber threats. Because a passkey is linked to a specific device and website, there is no password for criminals to steal through a fake website or phishing email.
More than 300,000 people successfully switched to passkeys during an initial trial. Nearly one in ten daily GOV.UK One Login sign-ins are now being completed using a passkey.
The biometric information or PIN used to unlock a passkey remains on the user’s device and is not seen or stored by GOV.UK One Login.
Using a passkey remains optional, and people who prefer to continue signing in with a password can do so.
GOV.UK One Login is used to access a growing range of public services, including checking State Pension information, managing tax services and accessing childcare support.
Find out more:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/millions-of-people-to-benefit-from-simpler-more-secure-way-to-sign-in-to-government-services