TikTok has introduced a new feature that allows users to log into their accounts using passkeys on iOS devices. The company claims that this implementation offers a convenient and efficient way for users to sign in across multiple devices. Moreover, it enhances security by reducing reliance on text-based passwords, thereby minimising the risk of hackers compromising user information or profiles within the app.
Passkeys serve as safer and more user-friendly alternatives to traditional passwords. Users can employ biometric sensors like fingerprints or facial recognition, as well as PINs or patterns, to authenticate their access to the app and websites. This eliminates the need to remember and manage complex passwords.
Importantly, apps utilising passkeys, including TikTok, are unable to access or process the biometric data used during the authentication process on iOS devices. All biometric authentication data remains securely stored on users’ devices. Passkeys are also resistant to online attacks such as phishing, providing a higher level of security compared to methods like SMS one-time codes.
According to Google, passkeys offer several advantages. Users can select the desired account for sign-in without typing the username manually. Authentication can be completed using the device’s built-in screen lock options like fingerprint sensors, facial recognition, or PINs. Once a passkey is created and registered, users can seamlessly switch to new devices without the need for re-enrollment, unlike traditional biometric authentication methods that require setup on each individual device.
TikTok has joined the ranks of apps supporting passkey authentication. To enable the passkey feature on TikTok, users can navigate to the app’s settings, select the passkey menu item, and follow a simple setup process. By saving a passkey through the iOS system prompt, users can enjoy the benefits of this enhanced security method.
It is worth noting that the passkey biometric data is stored locally on the user’s device, ensuring that TikTok and other apps cannot access fingerprint or Face ID data used for authentication.
To enhance security, passkeys on iOS and Mac devices are synchronised with iCloud Keychain. This integration offers additional protection against being locked out of an account in case of device loss and simplifies the transition from one device to another. It is important to have two-factor authentication enabled for Apple IDs as well.
TikTok plans to gradually roll out passkey support to select regions in Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America within this month. The company aims to expand availability to other locations and operating systems in the future, suggesting that passkey authentication will likely reach North America and Android devices in due course.
