The unofficial best-in-class of all the Google 2-step verification methods, passkeys are easy but also incredibly phishing-resistant. They are like secret digital "keys" that you keep on your devices, working in partnership with the same technology you use to unlock your phone or laptop. They're superior to other well-known Google 2-step methods like SMS, codes or calls. Because they only work on trusted devices and only when they are close to the login device, passkeys can't be discovered or learned by hackers.
Set up a passkey in 2 minutes or less:
- From a WFU Google profile/browser session, visit set up passkeys, sign in when prompted, and then select create a passkey.
Note from IS: you may see a message from Google like the one below. You can disregard this and go right to the + Create a passkey button. If you use Windows Hello or Apple ID on your laptop, select create a passkey.
This message may appear if Google detects that you do not yet have AppleID or Windows Hello (etc) set up for your laptop (you can add this later). Select use another device to add your mobile.
Google will walk you through setting up your passkey in a few simple clicks using your laptop or mobile device, including a step to confirm it's you using your normal phone/computer unlock method (fingerprint, face, PIN).
That's it! Next time you need to log into new sessions with your WFU account, instead of a phone call, SMS text, or Prompt, you'll get a prompt to use your passkey, and you'll approve it with your fingerprint, face, or PIN. Your other 2-step methods will still be there, if you ever need them.
If you would like help, contact our team. Find our team in chat at the window to the right, call us at 758-HELP, or send an email at [email protected].
Add a passkey to more devices
Passkeys are even easier if you can use any device with them. IS recommends adding at least two passkey devices. Your passkey information (including any biometric information) is yours alone. It is secured on your device, and is not shared externally with anyone or any system, even though the passkey "handshake" is. You can create a passkey from your screen lock code, or use your devices' unique biometric technologies to make it easier:
- Your Mac or iPad has TouchID and passcodes.
- Your Windows laptop has Windows Hello (face and fingerprint recognition).
- Your iPhone has FaceID or TouchID.
- Android mobile uses passkeys and Google's Password Manager.
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