Apple Announces Hardware Security Key Support for Apple ID

Apple has announced upcoming support for using hardware security keys with Apple ID.

Apple introduced two-factor authentication for Apple ID in 2015. Today, with more than 95 percent of active iCloud accounts using this protection, it is the most widely used two-factor account security system in the world that we're aware of. Now with Security Keys, users will have the choice to make use of third-party hardware security keys to enhance this protection.

This feature is designed for users who, often due to their public profile, face concerted threats to their online accounts, such as celebrities, journalists, and members of government. For users who opt in, Security Keys strengthens Apple's two-factor authentication by requiring a hardware security key as one of the two factors. This takes two-factor authentication even further, preventing even an advanced attacker from obtaining a user's second factor in a phishing scam.


Security Keys for Apple ID will be available globally in early 2023. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more updates.