Both security keys get near-field communication (NFC) connectivity that Google claims will allow them to be connected to 'most mobile devices.' The previous Titan Security Key with a USB Type-C port didn't support NFC connectivity. For now, Google said the Android security key will be limited to sign-ins to Google accounts only.Google Titan security keys are getting new versions with USB Type-A and USB Type-C connectivity.

The security key technology is also FIDO2 compliant, a secure and flexible standard that allows various devices running different operating systems to communicate with each other for authentication.įor the Android security key to work, iPhone and iPad users need the Google Smart Lock app installed. The company offered a free replacement for any affected device. Google admitted last month that its standalone Titan security keys were vulnerable to a pairing bug, potentially putting it at risk of hijack.

Even phishing pages won’t work because only legitimate websites support security keys.įor the most part, security keys are a last line of defense. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t log in without your authenticating device. When you log in to your account, you are prompted to authenticate with your key.

Instead of a security key that you keep on your key ring, newer Android devices have the technology built-in.

They’re designed to thwart even the smartest and most resourceful attackers, like nation-state hackers. Security keys are an important security step for users who are particularly at risk of advanced attacks. Signing in to a Google account on an iPad using an Android 7.0 device (Image: Google)

Titan security key iphone