Secure Logins Are Now Easier on Facebook With Passkeys
Facebook passkeys has officially rolled out passkey authentication for Android and iOS users, enabling a simpler and more secure way to log into accounts and authorize Meta Pay transactions. The feature uses fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN to authenticate user identity — replacing the need for traditional passwords.
What Are Passkeys?
Passkeys are a new form of passwordless login developed by the FIDO Alliance, designed to prevent phishing, password leaks, and credential stuffing attacks. Each passkey is uniquely generated per account and stored securely on the user’s device — not on Facebook’s servers.
Users can activate passkeys directly through the Accounts Centre in Facebook Settings, or they may receive prompts when logging in on a mobile device Facebook passkeys.
Key Highlights of Facebook’s Passkey Update
- Platform Availability: Android and iOS (mobile-only at launch)
- Authentication Methods: Fingerprint, Face ID, or device PIN
- Security: Passkeys are stored locally and are inaccessible to Meta or other apps
- Multi-Platform Support: Desktop login still requires password input for now
- Use Case Expansion: Meta Pay transactions and Messenger login support to follow soon
Facebook emphasizes that passkeys cannot be renamed even if users update their email or phone number. Each passkey is automatically tied to the user’s confirmed contact details on file.
Meta Pay and Messenger Will Also Benefit
Alongside logins, Facebook is also integrating passkey authentication into its Meta Pay payment system, providing an extra layer of protection during transactions. The update will streamline autofill for payment details with biometric confirmation.
Messenger users will also soon be able to log in and secure encrypted backups using passkeys, with a gradual rollout expected in the coming months.
Passkey Setup: How To Get Started
- Open the Facebook app on your Android or iOS device
- Go to Settings > Accounts Centre > Password and security
- Select Passkey and follow the on-screen instructions
- Confirm using your device’s fingerprint, face unlock, or PIN
Users can still use passwords or OTP-based login methods on devices that don’t support passkeys.
Conclusion
This move by Facebook is in line with the broader tech industry shift towards passwordless authentication. With growing emphasis on privacy, convenience, and phishing resistance, passkeys offer users a more secure and modern login experience — while paving the way for a future without passwords.
