Passwordless Authentication – Part 2

Transitioning to Passkeys and Biometrics – What Businesses Need to Know

In our September 2022 briefing, we introduced the concept of passwordless authentication, exploring how trusted devices can replace passwords for a more secure and user-friendly experience.  Fast forward to 2025, and that vision is rapidly becoming reality through widespread adoption of passkeys, biometric logins, and device-based trust models.

But moving from passwords to passkeys isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a security transformation that demands planning, policy updates, and new risk considerations.

How Businesses Can Implement Passwordless Authentication

1. Start with Identity Inventory
   Document which users, devices, and apps currently rely on password-based login. Prioritize high-risk access points (e.g., VPN, email, finance apps) for transition.
2. Adopt Passkey-Compatible Platforms
   Ensure applications and identity providers (e.g., Azure AD, Okta, Google Workspace) support FIDO2/WebAuthn standards, which allow for passkey-based authentication.
3. Introduce Biometric Authentication
   Enable fingerprint, facial recognition, or device-based PINs as secure authenticators tied to individual devices. These offer convenience and security—provided the device itself is protected.
4. Use Multi-Device Credential Syncing
   Leverage ecosystems (Apple iCloud, Google Password Manager, Microsoft Authenticator) to synchronize passkeys across trusted devices without exposing them to the cloud in plaintext.
5. Educate and Test
   Communicate clearly with staff about how authentication is changing and why. Pilot the transition with small teams before expanding company-wide.

New Risks and Threats to Consider

While passwordless methods address many security weaknesses, they also introduce new areas of concern:

• Device Theft or Compromise
  If biometric access is tied to a stolen device without additional protections (e.g., lock screen timeout, secure enclave), it could be exploited.
• Biometric Spoofing
  Although rare, face and fingerprint spoofing is possible with high-quality forgeries. Implement fallback controls and monitor authentication logs.
• Syncing Across Devices
  Cloud-synced passkeys may be vulnerable if the cloud account itself is compromised. Strong device-level encryption and identity verification are essential.
• Regulatory Uncertainty
  In healthcare, finance, and other regulated industries, compliance frameworks may not yet fully recognize or provide guidance for passkey-only systems. Maintain fallback authentication methods and document policy changes.

Final Thoughts

Passwordless authentication promises improved user experience and stronger security—but it isn’t plug-and-play.  It requires thoughtful deployment, new policies, and awareness of emerging threats.  As we shift toward a future without passwords, ensuring the integrity and security of trusted devices becomes more important than ever.