X Rolls Out Passwordless ‘Passkey’ Logins Worldwide on iOS

Highlights

• Passkey login now available globally for iOS users on X.
• Offers a more secure alternative to traditional passwords.
• Authentication via a unique key pair, confirmed through biometrics or passcode.
• Initial US launch in January now extended to all iPhone users.

In a move to enhance account security, X (formerly Twitter) has expanded the availability of its passkey login feature to iOS users globally.

This passwordless authentication method, initially launched for US users in January, is now accessible to X app users on iPhones around the world.

Passkeys: A More Secure Login Alternative

Passkeys are touted as a more secure alternative to traditional passwords, as they are designed to be resistant to phishing, social engineering attacks, and login theft.

Instead of relying on a password, passkeys use a unique key pair for authentication.

When setting up a passkey login, users create a key pair – one key is stored locally on their device, while the other is shared with the service provider (in this case, X).

To verify a user’s identity, X needs to pair the key it has with the one stored on the user’s device, which is confirmed through biometric authentication or a device passcode.

Rolling Out Globally on iOS

While passkey support was initially limited to US-based iOS users, X has now expanded the feature’s availability to iPhone users worldwide.

This global rollout aims to provide more users with the option to leverage this secure login method.

Enabling Passkeys on X

To enable passkey login on the X app for iOS, users can follow these steps:

1. Open the X app on their iOS device
2. Tap their profile picture in the top-left corner
3. Select “Settings and Support” > “Settings and Privacy” > “Security and Account Access” > “Security”
4. Toggle on the “Passkey” option and confirm with their current password

Promoting Secure Authentication

X’s move to expand passkey support aligns with the broader industry push for more secure authentication methods.

As traditional passwords become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, passwordless alternatives like passkeys aim to provide an added layer of protection for user accounts.

However, it’s important to note that while passkeys offer enhanced security, they may not be a perfect solution for all users.

Some may still prefer traditional two-factor authentication methods, such as authenticator apps or physical security keys.

FAQs

What is a passkey login on X?

A passkey login on X is a passwordless authentication method that uses a unique key pair for securing user accounts. One key is stored on the user’s device, and the other with X.

Authentication requires matching these keys, verified through biometrics or a device passcode, making it highly resistant to phishing and theft.

How can I set up a passkey login for my X account on iOS?

To set up a passkey login on iOS, open the X app, tap your profile picture, go to “Settings and Support” > “Settings and Privacy” > “Security and Account Access” > “Security”, then toggle on the “Passkey” option. Confirm the action with your current password to complete the setup.

Who can use the passkey login feature on X?

The passkey login feature on X is now available to all iOS users worldwide, following its initial launch for US users.

It provides a secure login alternative for those seeking to enhance their account security on the platform.

Why are passkeys considered more secure than traditional passwords?

Passkeys are deemed more secure because they’re not susceptible to common cyber threats like phishing or social engineering attacks.

The authentication method relies on a key pair, where only the matching of the user’s device key and the service provider’s key grants access, bolstered by biometric verification or a device passcode.

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