Facebook for iOS and Android Gains Hardware Security Key Support

Facebook has announced that starting today, users on iOS and Android will have the ability to log into their account with a hardware security key, bringing a more than three-year-old feature for the desktop to mobile devices.

Facebook Feature

Since 2017, Facebook has allowed users to use a hardware security key to access their accounts on desktops. Mobile users, however, have remained limited to protecting logins to their account with either an SMS verification code or an authentication app.

Hardware security keys are a small, USB-shaped device that requires you to manually push a button, connect it directly to your device, or use NFC to verify your identity. Since hackers cannot obtain the physical key itself, it's deemed one of the safest security layers possible for online accounts.

Facebook says it encourages everyone to purchase a security key and add the extra security layer to their account. Setting up a security key is relatively straightforward; users can go to the Security and Login section of settings within Facebook for iOS and Android, select Security Key, and follow the on-screen prompts.

Top Rated Comments

ArPe Avatar
29 months ago
Plug in the hardware security key

Access the high security options

Click Delete Account

Are you sure? Choose yes.
Score: 21 Votes (Like | Disagree)
PJWilkin Avatar
29 months ago
Let me get this straight

you can log in to Facebook using a hardware key to protect your account and Data

but Facebook want access to all your data, information etc so they can carry out their business, while at the same time selling and allowing access to that Data

easier to just drop Facebook
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
sw1tcher Avatar
29 months ago
I'd prefer verifying my identity with something like Touch ID. Built into the device so there's nothing to lose/misplace.
Score: 7 Votes (Like | Disagree)
code-m Avatar
29 months ago
Hardware dongles for software is making a comeback, welcome back 1990s and early 2000s.
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
PlainviewX Avatar
29 months ago
I can't wait to never implement this for anything, ever.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Captain Trips Avatar
29 months ago

Plug in the hardware security key

Access the high security options

Click Delete Account

Are you sure? Choose yes.
Sadly, using Facebook's hardware key will likely install malware (oops, I mean Facebook enhancements) and track you at the device level.

To quote Admiral Ackbar from "The Return of the Jedi": "It's a trap!"
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)