In our continued effort to enhance security and streamline user experience, we are excited to announce the availability of passkeys as an optional two-factor authentication (2FA) solution for all employees. This modern authentication method is not only more secure but also more convenient than traditional 2FA methods. Starting early next year, passkeys will become our primary 2FA solution, replacing the current options.
What Are Passkeys?
Passkeys are a form of passwordless authentication designed to make logging in more secure and user-friendly. Unlike traditional passwords or one-time codes, passkeys leverage cryptographic keys stored on your device. This method eliminates the risks associated with phishing and other password-related attacks.
Why Switch to Passkeys?
- Enhanced Security: Passkeys use public-key cryptography, which is significantly more secure than passwords or SMS codes.
- User Convenience: With passkeys, there’s no need to remember passwords or carry additional devices. Your smartphone or laptop becomes your key.
- Phishing Resistance: Since passkeys don’t rely on shared secrets (like passwords), they are inherently resistant to phishing attacks.
Steps to Enable Passkeys (Google)
Enabling passkeys on your Google account is straightforward. Follow these steps to set up passkeys as your 2FA method:
1. Sign In to Your Google Account:
• Open your web browser and go to myaccount.google.com.
• Sign in with your Google account credentials.
2. Navigate to Security Settings:
• In your Google Account page, click on “Security” from the left-hand menu.
3. Set Up 2-Step Verification:
• Scroll down to the “Signing in to Google” section.
• Click on “2-Step Verification” and follow the prompts to set it up if you haven’t already.
4. Add a Security Key:
• Once 2-Step Verification is enabled, scroll down to find the “Authenticator app” and “Security Key” options.
• Click on “Add Security Key”.
5. Choose Your Passkey Device:
• Select your device to use as your passkey. This could be your smartphone or a hardware security key.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. This typically involves connecting your device and confirming the key through a prompt on your screen.
6. Confirm and Save:
• After setting up your passkey, confirm the setup by signing in again using the new authentication method.
• Save your settings.
Transition Timeline
We encourage all employees to start using passkeys as soon as possible to familiarize themselves with this new system. Our existing 2FA methods, such as SMS and authenticator apps, will be phased out early next year. By then, passkeys will be the standard for all employee accounts.
Support and Assistance
If you encounter any issues while setting up passkeys or have any questions, please contact the IT support team. We are here to help you transition smoothly to this enhanced security measure.
Adopting passkeys is a significant step forward in our commitment to providing a secure and user-friendly authentication experience. We appreciate your cooperation in making this transition seamless and look forward to a more secure future with passkeys.
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