Passkeys explained: how they work and how to set them up safely

On 14 September 2026 the government told the 23 million people with a GOV.UK One Login account that they could stop typing passwords and waiting for text-message codes. Checking a State Pension, renewing a driving licence or sorting out a tax account can now be done with a fingerprint, a face scan or a phone PIN. The government says dropping the SMS codes alone saves the taxpayer almost £600 a…