Categories
News

WhatsApp for iOS Gains Support for Passkeys

[ad_1]

Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp today announced that it is rolling out support for passkeys on iOS, a feature that will let WhatsApp users log in to their accounts on iOS devices using Face ID, Touch ID, or their device passcode.

Whatsapp Feature
Passkeys serve as a replacement for a traditional password, and because device authentication is required, passkeys put a stop to online attacks like phishing. With a passkey, there’s no password to steal, and no one-time SMS or authentication code that can be intercepted.

Passkeys are also more convenient, because logins are done with a quick ‌Face ID‌ or ‌Touch ID‌ scan rather than a password. WhatsApp passkeys can be enabled by opening up the app settings, choosing the Account section, and tapping on “Passkeys.”

Apple has supported passkeys since 2022, and they work on devices that run iOS 16 and later, iPadOS 16 and later, and macOS Ventura and later. Many companies have been implementing support for passkeys, including X (formerly Twitter), Google, TikTok, PayPal, Best Buy, Microsoft, PlayStation, and eBay.

Popular Stories

Apple Announces ‘Let Loose’ Event on May 7 Amid Rumors of New iPads

Apple has announced it will be holding a special event on Tuesday, May 7 at 7 a.m. Pacific Time (10 a.m. Eastern Time), with a live stream to be available on Apple.com and on YouTube as usual. The event invitation has a tagline of “Let Loose” and shows an artistic render of an Apple Pencil, suggesting that iPads will be a focus of the event. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more …

Apple Cuts Vision Pro Shipments as Demand Falls ‘Sharply Beyond Expectations’

Apple has dropped the number of Vision Pro units that it plans to ship in 2024, going from an expected 700 to 800k units to just 400k to 450k units, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Orders have been scaled back before the Vision Pro has launched in markets outside of the United States, which Kuo says is a sign that demand in the U.S. has “fallen sharply beyond expectations.” As a…

iOS 17.5 Will Add These New Features to Your iPhone

The upcoming iOS 17.5 update for the iPhone includes only a few new user-facing features, but hidden code changes reveal some additional possibilities. Below, we have recapped everything new in the iOS 17.5 and iPadOS 17.5 beta so far. Web Distribution Starting with the second beta of iOS 17.5, eligible developers are able to distribute their iOS apps to iPhone users located in the EU…

Apple Finally Plans to Release a Calculator App for iPad Later This Year

Apple is finally planning a Calculator app for the iPad, over 14 years after launching the device, according to a source familiar with the matter. iPadOS 18 will include a built-in Calculator app for all iPad models that are compatible with the software update, which is expected to be unveiled during the opening keynote of Apple’s annual developers conference WWDC on June 10. AppleInsider…

Apple Reportedly Stops Production of FineWoven Accessories

Apple has stopped production of FineWoven accessories, according to the Apple leaker and prototype collector known as “Kosutami.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kosutami explained that Apple has stopped production of FineWoven accessories due to its poor durability. The company may move to another non-leather material for its premium accessories in the future. Kosutami has revealed…

Apple Vision Pro Customer Interest Dying Down at Some Retail Stores

Apple Vision Pro, Apple’s $3,500 spatial computing device, appears to be following a pattern familiar to the AR/VR headset industry – initial enthusiasm giving way to a significant dip in sustained interest and usage. Since its debut in the U.S. in February 2024, excitement for the Apple Vision Pro has noticeably cooled, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Writing in his latest Power On…



[ad_2]

Source Article Link

Categories
News

X Rolls Out Passkeys Support to iPhone Users Worldwide

[ad_1]

X, formerly Twitter, has extended support for passkeys as a login option for iPhone users across the globe, the company has announced.

X twitter logo
Passkeys support was introduced by X earlier this year, but the option was limited to iOS users based in the United States. Now anyone on the social media platform can use them.

Passkeys are both easier to use and more secure than passwords because they let users sign in to apps and sites the same way they unlock their devices: With Face ID, Touch ID, or a device passcode. Passkeys are also resistant to online attacks like phishing, making them more secure than things like SMS one-time codes.

Apple integrated passkeys into iOS in 2022 with the launch of iOS 16, and it is also available in iPadOS 16.1 and later as well as macOS Ventura and later.

To set up passkeys in X on ‌iPhone‌, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to the X app.
  2. Click Your account in the navigation bar.
  3. Select Settings and privacy, then click Security and account access, then Security.
  4. Under Additional password protection, click Passkey.
  5. Enter your password when prompted.
  6. Select Add a passkey and follow the prompts.

X is just one of several companies to implement support for passkeys in recent months, with other supporting apps and websites including Google, PayPal, Best Buy, eBay, Dashlane, and Microsoft.

Popular Stories

Batterygate: iPhone Users in Canada Can Now Submit Claims for Up to $150 Payout From Apple

Apple agreed to pay up to $14.4 million (CAD) to settle a class action lawsuit in Canada that alleged the company secretly throttled the performance of some iPhone models (“batterygate”), and eligible customers can now submit a claim for payment. Apple’s settlement received court approval on March 4, and the claims period began today, according to law firm Rochon Genova LLP. To submit a…

When to Expect the Next iPad Mini and Low-End iPad Models to Launch

While rumors have been focused on new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, some Apple customers are wondering when the next iPad mini will be released. In his Power On newsletter today, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said new iPad mini and entry-level iPad models will be released in late 2024 at the earliest. “The company is also working on new versions of the low-end iPad and iPad mini, but those…

iPhone 16 Pro Expected Later This Year With These 12 New Features

While the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are still months away from launching, there are already over a dozen rumors about the devices. Below, we have recapped new features and changes expected for the devices so far. These are some of the key changes rumored for the iPhone 16 Pro models as of April 2024:Larger displays: The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will be equipped with large…

Best Buy Introduces Record Low Prices Across Every 10th Gen iPad

Following a few notable discounts on MacBooks yesterday, Best Buy today introduced a sale on the 10th generation iPad, including numerous all-time low prices on the tablet. Prices start at $349.00 for the 64GB Wi-Fi model, and include $100 markdowns on both Wi-Fi and cellular devices. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Best Buy. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may…

Tim Cook Sells Nearly 200,000 Apple Shares

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook this week sold 196,410 shares of the company’s stock, which had a total value of approximately $33.2 million based on the average sale price of the transactions, according to a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing. After taxes, Cook netted nearly $16.4 million from the sales. Cook received all of the shares that he sold this week as a performance-based stock…

Best Buy’s Weekend Sale Has Best-Ever Prices on MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, TVs, and More

This weekend, Best Buy has a sale on MacBooks, including the previous generation 15-inch MacBook Air and the M3 MacBook Pro. As usual, Best Buy’s sale covers far more than just Apple products, and you’ll also find solid discounts on TVs, video games, and more during the event. Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Best Buy. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a…

Gurman: New iPads Likely to Launch During Second Week of May

Apple will likely launch new iPad Pro and iPad Air models during the second week of May, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. “For those looking for more specific timing, I’m told the launch will probably happen the week of May 6,” said Gurman, in his Power On newsletter today. “Another data point to that end: Apple retail stores are preparing to receive new product marketing materials…

[ad_2]

Source Article Link

Categories
Business Industry

X (Twitter) to soon get passkeys support on Android

[ad_1]

Last updated: March 14th, 2024 at 09:32 UTC+01:00

In January this year, X (formerly Twitter) added support for passkeys to the X app for iOS. Now, the company is working on bringing support for passkeys to the X app for Android.

According to AssembleDebug on TheSpAndroid, the latest beta version of the X app for Android (version 10.32.0) contains strings of codes mentioning passkeys. What’s even more interesting is that the author was able to activate the feature. Once they activated it, an option to enable passkeys appeared in the app with the description “Enable passkeys for added protection that may be tied to your biometrics.” The option is located in Settings and privacy » Security and account access » Security.

X:Twitter Support For Passkeys On Android

Unfortunately, the support for passkeys is not functional in the app at the moment, which suggests that the project is still under development. Once the feature is ready, the company might activate it by default in the beta version of the app, test it thoroughly, and then make it available in the stable version of the app. Once that happens, you will be able to log into the X app for Android by authenticating your identity using your phone’s or tablet’s fingerprint scanner or facial recognition system.

[ad_2]

Source Article Link

Categories
News

Passwords vs Passkeys what are the differences?

Passwords vs Passkeys comapriosn

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital security, a significant shift is taking place that is set to transform the way we protect our online identities. The move from traditional passwords to the more advanced and secure passkeys is gaining momentum, driven by the efforts of the FIDO Alliance. This change is designed to not only bolster your online safety but also to simplify the process of proving who you are when you log in to various services.

For years, passwords have been the primary method of securing our digital lives. However, they are fraught with issues: they can be easily guessed, they’re susceptible to phishing attacks, and they’re often compromised in data breaches. Passkeys offer a more robust solution. These are cryptographic keys that are stored directly on your device and work alongside biometric data—like your fingerprint or facial recognition—to verify your identity. This approach doesn’t just make the login process smoother; it also greatly enhances your security.

Should you ever lose your device, there’s no need to panic. Passkeys come with recovery options that are similar to what you’re used to with passwords. This ensures that you can regain access to your accounts without sacrificing security. One of the most appealing features of passkeys is their ability to sync across your devices in a secure manner. This functionality allows you to access your accounts from any device without the burden of remembering a slew of different passwords.

Passwords vs Passkeys

  • Security:
    • Passwords: Vulnerable to phishing, brute force attacks, and can be stolen if not stored securely.
    • Passkeys: More secure, using cryptographic keys. Immune to phishing and brute force attacks.
  • User Experience:
    • Passwords: Often require remembering complex combinations, which can be inconvenient and lead to insecure practices like reusing passwords.
    • Passkeys: Simplify authentication, typically using biometrics or a device PIN, eliminating the need to remember passwords.
  • Storage:
    • Passwords: Stored on servers, potentially exposed in data breaches.
    • Passkeys: The private key is stored on the user’s device, and only the public key is stored on servers, enhancing security.
  • Authentication Process:
    • Passwords: Involves sending a password to the server for verification.
    • Passkeys: Authentication is done through a cryptographic process without sending sensitive information over the network.
  • Vulnerability to Common Threats:
    • Passwords: Susceptible to various threats like keyloggers, phishing, and man-in-the-middle attacks.
    • Passkeys: Resistant to these common threats due to cryptographic authentication.
  • Management:
    • Passwords: Often require a password manager for secure storage and management.
    • Passkeys: Less reliant on external management tools, as they are securely stored and managed on the user’s devices.
  • Recovery:
    • Passwords: Can be reset through email or security questions, but this process can be a security risk.
    • Passkeys: Recovery can be more complex, often relying on syncing with a trusted device or cloud service.
  • Interoperability:
    • Passwords: Universally accepted across platforms and websites.
    • Passkeys: Depend on support for standards like WebAuthn, which is growing but not yet universal.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Passkeys :

However, it’s important to remain vigilant when using passkeys, especially on public or untrusted systems. The same security precautions that apply to passwords are relevant here as well. To prevent security breaches, it’s best to use passkeys only on devices and networks that you trust.

Passkeys are built upon the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), which is a sophisticated framework that supports secure technologies such as SSH, PGP, TLS, and SSL. This strong foundation ensures that passkeys are a dependable method for secure authentication.

While password managers have provided a level of convenience, they are not without their vulnerabilities. They can fall prey to phishing schemes or database breaches. Passkeys, in contrast, offer a more secure alternative because they do not transmit the secret key during the authentication process. This greatly diminishes the chances of falling victim to cyber attacks.

The FIDO Alliance, which boasts a membership of over 250 organizations, is at the forefront of advocating for the adoption of passkeys. The growing support from this coalition is a clear indicator of a shift towards a digital environment that is both more secure and user-friendly.

The transition from passwords to passkeys represents a crucial advancement in the realm of digital security. With the support of a robust alliance and the integration of time-tested security technologies, we can look forward to a future where our online interactions are not just safer, but also more convenient.

Filed Under: Technology News, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

Categories
News

New Google Titan Security Key stores 250 unique passkeys

Google Titan Security Key

At the Aspen Cyber Summit in New York City, Google has this week announced the release of its new Titan Security Key specifically designed to help bolstering online security, especially for high-risk users worldwide. The Titan Security Key is a cutting-edge tool designed to enhance your digital security. Essentially, it’s a physical key that provides an additional layer of protection against phishing attacks, one of the most prevalent threats in the online world.

  • USB-A/NFC security keyFor use with your computer. You can also connect to most Android and iOS devices that support USB or NFC.
  • USB-C/NFC security keyFor use with newer computers with USB-C ports. You can also connect to most Android and iOS devices that support USB or NFC.
  • Titan Security Keys work with Google phones, Chromebooks, tablets, Google’s Advanced Protection Program and virtually anything running Google Chrome.

The Google Titan Security Key uses advanced FIDO2 credentials and cryptography. You might be wondering how this makes your online experience safer. Well, it’s quite straightforward. The key acts as a physical authentication device. When you log into your account, instead of just entering a password, you’ll also need this key. This two-step verification process adds an extra barrier against unauthorized access.

Titan Security Key features

  • Passkey Storage: One of the standout features of the new Titan Security Key is its ability to store over 250 unique passkeys. This means you can use it across various services, making it a versatile tool for your digital security arsenal.
  • NFC Capabilities: Both new models of the key include Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities. This feature allows for seamless and swift connections with mobile devices, enhancing user convenience.
  • PIN Code Option: When setting up a passkey for your Google Account on the new Titan Security Key, you have the option to establish a simple PIN code. This can be used as a secure alternative to traditional passwords.

In a significant move, Google has pledged to distribute 100,000 of these new security keys at no cost to high-risk individuals globally in 2024. This initiative, part of Google’s Advanced Protection Program (APP), aims to safeguard individuals who are more susceptible to targeted online attacks, such as journalists, activists, and campaign workers. Google collaborates with expert partners like Access Now and Freedom House to make this possible. You might be wondering, why the shift towards a passwordless future? Google believes that the best way to mitigate the risks associated with passwords is to eliminate them entirely. Passkeys offer a simpler and more secure way to access accounts, negating the need for traditional passwords.

Digital security

If you’re someone who values digital security, the Titan Security Key is a tool worth considering. Whether you’re safeguarding sensitive information or simply aiming to enhance your personal online security, this device provides a robust solution. If you are wondering how to integrate this into your daily digital routine, it’s simpler than you might think. With its user-friendly design and advanced technology, the Titan Security Key is not just a gadget for tech enthusiasts but a practical tool for everyday users who prioritize their online security.

Remember, in today’s world, staying ahead of security threats is not just a preference; it’s a necessity. The Titan Security Key by Google is a step forward in this ongoing battle against digital vulnerabilities. To learn more about the Titan Security Key and how it can protect you from phishing and other online threats, visit the Titan Security Key product page on the Google Store.

Filed Under: Gadgets News, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.

Categories
News

Make the switch to passwordless passkeys

Make the switch to passwordless passkeys

In the ever-evolving world of technology, Apple and Google has taken a significant step towards enhancing user security and convenience by introducing passkeys as the default sign-in option for personal accounts. This innovative feature, which uses biometrics such as a fingerprint or face scan, or a screen lock PIN, is set to revolutionize the way users access their accounts across various platforms.

Passkeys, also known as Fast Identity Online (FIDO) credentials, are securely stored on a user’s computer or smartphone. They serve as a digital key to unlock online accounts, eliminating the need for users to remember multiple passwords for different apps and websites. The introduction of passkeys as the default sign-in option is a testament to Google’s commitment to improving user experience and security.

“For those of us who’ve spent a quarter century memorizing passwords — reworking pet names, birthdays and sports teams into our sign-in credentials — it’s easy to yearn for simpler times. Plus, filling our heads with random numbers and special characters is an imperfect defense. A decade of data breaches, hacks and phishing attempts have transformed passwords from a person’s first line of defense to their primary security vulnerability.”

How do passkeys work?

Other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Passkeys :

The use of biometrics, such as a fingerprint or face scan, or a PIN for passkeys, adds an extra layer of security. This is because these biometric features are unique to each individual, making it difficult for unauthorized users to gain access to personal accounts. Moreover, the use of biometrics also simplifies the sign-in process. Users only need to unlock their phones to sign into a website or app, eliminating the need for a password.

Passwordless passkeys FIDO

For users who prefer traditional methods, Google still provides the option to use passwords. However, the benefits of passkeys, including speed, security, and ease of use, make them an attractive alternative. Passkeys work using public key cryptography, a secure method that only shows proof of credential ownership to an online account when a user unlocks their phone. This is similar to Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), more recently known as Transport Layer Security (TLS), but instead of systems authenticating each other, the user’s device holds the corresponding private key.

The adoption of passkeys by other platforms such as Uber, eBay, and WhatsApp further underscores the growing acceptance of this technology. These platforms recognize the benefits of passkeys, particularly in terms of enhancing user security and convenience.

The introduction of passkeys as the default sign-in option by Google marks a significant milestone in the realm of online security. By leveraging biometrics and public key cryptography, passkeys offer a secure and convenient alternative to traditional passwords. As more platforms adopt this technology, it is clear that passkeys are set to become the new norm in online authentication.

Filed Under: Hardware, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.