Amazon has introduced passkeys as a passwordless authentication method [1] [4], similar to FaceID and TouchID for Apple devices [3]. This new feature enhances security by allowing users to log in using biometric authentication on their devices.
Description
Passkeys provide an extra layer of protection against malware and phishing attacks. Users can generate a passkey in the Your Account > Login & security settings section to log in to the site [1]. However, passkey support may not be compatible with all security keys and is currently not supported in Amazon’s native apps. Additionally, users still need to enter a one-time verification code if they have previously set up two-factor authentication [2]. It is unclear if this requirement is temporary or if passkey support will be added to mobile apps [2]. Users also need to configure separate passkeys for each country or top-level domain [3].
Despite these limitations, the rollout of passkeys by Amazon is expected to familiarize a large segment of non-tech-savvy users with the benefits of passkeys and may lead to increased demand for passkeys on other online platforms [3]. Amazon has already added passkey support in the U.S., U.K. [2], France [2], and Germany [2] [3], and they are in the early stages of expanding passkey support further. WhatsApp is also gradually rolling out the option to log in with passkeys, following Amazon’s lead in adopting this new authentication method.
Conclusion
The introduction of passkeys by Amazon provides enhanced security for users by utilizing biometric authentication. While there are some limitations [1], such as compatibility issues and the need for separate passkeys for different regions, the adoption of passkeys is expected to increase awareness and demand for this authentication method. The expansion of passkey support by Amazon and the adoption by other platforms like WhatsApp indicate a growing trend towards passwordless authentication.
References
[1] https://cyber.vumetric.com/security-news/2023/10/17/amazon-adds-passkey-support-as-new-passwordless-login-option/
[2] https://techcrunch.com/2023/10/17/amazon-passkey-sign-in/
[3] https://www.darkreading.com/cloud/amazon-quietly-wades-into-passkey-waters
[4] https://beamstart.com/news/amazon-quietly-rolls-out-support-16975462069766
