With the iOS 13.3 update, Safari also supports physical security keys, such as the Yubikey. This way your accounts are extra secured. Curious how that works? iPhone shows how it is.
iOS 13.3 and security keys
In addition to a new function that allows you to set a communication limit in iOS 13.3, there is now also full support for physical security keys. A security key is a small, flat key ring that you can put in your iPhone or computer.
Such a key adds a second layer of security. For example, if you keep confidential files in your online account, it is wise to have that. You can then set important accounts that you need such a physical security key in addition to a password. This is also referred to as two-step verification or two-factor authentication.
Pair the security key with your iPhone
If you want to use the security key on your iPhone, first make sure that the device has a Lightning connection. A must is the YubiKey 5Ci. Follow the security key’s instructions to pair it with your iPhone. When using the YubiKey, you can see how to do that here. It goes like this:
- In your browser, go to an account that you want to secure extra, such as your Google account;
- In your settings, under security, you set up two-step verification. For example, for your Google account, you can do that in your settings under security. At ‘Log in to Google’, choose ‘Two-step verification’. Here you choose the option ‘Security key’;
- Follow the instructions in your account to link your security key;
- As soon as you log in to your account, after entering your password, you will be instructed to put the security key in your iPhone;
- Insert the key into the Lightning port and if necessary press the button on the security key to verify that you are a person and not a robot.
Is it too much trouble to do this every time you log in? You can also choose to remember your password and key on your own iPhone or computer. If you log in to another (public) computer or iPhone, you will need the security key. This way, there can never be just anyone in your account.
Password manager
It’s smart to use a password manager anyway. This saves all your passwords and generates long, secure passwords for your accounts. For such a password manager you choose a master password, which gives you access to your safe of passwords.
→ Step-by-step plan: start using a password manager in 5 steps
With a separate two-step verification app, such as Google Authenticator and LastPass Authenticator, you add an extra security step to your safe and separate accounts. Still, even with a password manager it is extra safe to have a physical security key, as it cannot be hacked over the internet.
More features in iOS 13.3
Curious about other features in iOS 13.3? Then check our overview with all new iOS 13.3 functions in a row. In addition to new functions, the update also fixes a number of bugs. In addition, the Powerbeats 4 with ‘Hey Siri’ support appeared in the code of the update.