Google goes for Security Key- A Simplified Version of its Two-Factor Authentication.Logging in to Gmail will become a lot easier now since Google has officially endorsed Security Key.Security Key is an open standard which will allow users to log-in to their accounts using an attachable physical device.The device will be shaped like a USB and will replace the 6 digit confirmation code that is currently being used by Google’s Two-Factor Authentication.Google is taking its users’ privacy very serious and making every possible effort for its users just to make them feel secure when they are online.
By letting users protect their accounts using two-factor authentication based on physical USB keys, it will be no longer any compulsion for you to type in the six-digit authentication code in Google’s Gmail or your Google Account. The Security Key ensures access via both your physical presence and your login password.
“Today we’re adding even stronger protection for particularly security-sensitive individuals,” Nishit Shah, security product manager at Google, said in a blog post. “Security Key is a physical USB second factor that only works after verifying the login site is truly a Google website, not a fake site pretending to be Google.”
Numerous manufacturers already are developing compatible keys the price of which range between $6 and $50. Since keys are created on top of the FIDO standard, therefore, almost any manufacturer can attempt to make a compatible key and any service can utilize these keys as authenticators. Samsung, PayPal and Alibaba have already endorsed similar programs into their networks.
“Rather than typing a code, just insert Security Key into your computer’s USB port and tap it when prompted in Chrome. When you sign into your Google Account using Chrome and Security Key, you can be sure that the cryptographic signature cannot be phished.”
Nonetheless, the rate at which the standard is developing, it has become clear that high-profile organizations like Google are moving beyond single password standard of ensuring consumer data security. Michael Barrett, president of FIDO Alliance.