What are passkey security benefits over passwordless auth?

Passkeys provide a higher level of security compared to traditional passwordless authentication methods. While passwordless solutions eliminate passwords, they often still rely on shared secrets (e.g., SMS OTPs, email magic links) that remain vulnerable to phishing and interception. Passkeys, on the other hand, use asymmetric cryptography, making them both passwordless and phishing-resistant.

1. Phishing Resistance

   • Traditional passwordless methods (SMS OTPs, magic links) can be intercepted if a user is tricked into entering them on a fake site.
   • Passkeys prevent phishing by binding authentication to a legitimate domain. Even if an attacker tries to redirect a user, the passkey won’t complete authentication.

2. Elimination of Shared Secrets

   • Many passwordless methods still involve a reusable secret (e.g., OTPs, email links).
   • Passkeys do not transmit secrets over the network—only a cryptographic proof is exchanged, making them immune to replay attacks.

3. Protection Against Credential Theft

   • Passwordless systems using TOTP (Time-Based One-Time Passwords) or push notifications can still be stolen via social engineering.
   • Passkeys store the private key securely on the user’s device, preventing attackers from gaining control remotely.

4. No SIM-Swap Vulnerability

   • SMS-based passwordless authentication is vulnerable to SIM-swapping attacks.
   • Passkeys do not rely on phone numbers, eliminating this risk.

5. Stronger Device Security

   • Passkeys leverage biometrics (Face ID, Touch ID, Windows Hello) or a secure PIN, providing a seamless and secure login experience.
   • Traditional passwordless authentication may still require a fallback password, reducing its security.

While passwordless authentication reduces friction, not all passwordless methods are phishing-resistant. Passkeys provide both passwordless convenience and phishing resistance, making them the superior choice for enterprises. By adopting passkeys, organizations enhance security while eliminating password-related risks altogether.