X, formerly Twitter, is introducing passkeys as a more secure login method for all iOS users worldwide. This new feature aims to enhance the security of user accounts compared to traditional passwords. In January, only iOS users in the United States initially had access to the feature.
The X @Safety account recently announced that iOS users worldwide can now use passkeys as a login option. Other popular apps and services, such as PayPal, TikTok, WhatsApp, GitHub, and others, have already incorporated similar technology. Last fall, Google made passkeys the default sign-in option for all users. Companies like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and others also offer support for this option.
Major tech companies and industry organizations, including Google, Apple, Microsoft, the FIDO Alliance, and the World Wide Web Consortium, developed passkey technology. The goal is to enable passwordless logins on various devices, operating systems, and web browsers. Passkeys offer a more secure and convenient alternative to traditional logins. Instead of relying on a username and password, passkeys utilize biometric authentication such as Face ID or Touch ID, a PIN, or a physical security authentication key to verify logins. The process combines the advantages of two-factor authentication (2FA) into a single step, resulting in a smoother login experience without compromising on security.
With the new addition, users can now enhance the security of their accounts and safeguard them against potential hacks by malicious individuals. Several notable security breaches have occurred on the social network, including one in January when the U.S. Securities and Exchange’s X account shared an unauthorized post about Bitcoin ETF approval. Donald Trump Jr.’s X account posted a fake message claiming the death of Donald Trump. A crypto scam in 2020 compromised several prominent accounts, including those of Apple, President Biden, and Elon Musk.
The addition could also benefit X users, who previously relied on SMS 2FA to secure their accounts. Last year, X announced the removal of this option for non-paying users. X expressed concern about the potential misuse of the cost-cutting measure, citing examples such as SIM swaps. However, it is important to note that it resulted in a decrease in X’s security.
X provides users with step-by-step instructions for setting up passcodes on iOS devices. We have not yet announced the availability for Android users.
