Google Enhances Security with Passkeys in Advanced Protection Program

Tech & AI | July 10, 2024, 10:34 a.m.

Google is enhancing its Advanced Protection Program (APP) by introducing passkey support, providing an alternative to the previously mandatory physical security key. Aimed at high-risk individuals like elected officials and human rights workers, APP now offers the choice between a passkey or a physical key. This change addresses concerns that the physical key requirement made the program less accessible to those who needed it most. Google, along with other tech companies, has been promoting passkeys for security, with over 400 million accounts utilizing them over 1 billion times. The adoption of this technology, however, has been gradual. Additionally, Google has partnered with media nonprofit Internews to offer cybersecurity support to journalists and human rights advocates in ten countries. This collaboration highlights Google's commitment to enhancing digital security for vulnerable populations globally.