UK Government Launches Passkeys for GOV.UK One Login

The Government of the United Kingdom has launched a passkey feature for the GOV.UK One Login system, enabling over 23 million users to access public services using fingerprints, Face ID, or device PINs. The optional system follows a trial with 300,000 participants and applies to services such as tax management, state pension checks, and driving licence renewals.

Government officials report that passkeys are up to eight times faster than traditional sign-in processes involving usernames and two-step verification. The transition is already saving the government approximately £600 per day in SMS charges, with passkeys accounting for nearly 10% of daily sign-ins. To ensure security, biometric data is stored locally on user devices, while credentials are saved in password managers to allow for cross-device usage.

Digital Government Minister Stephanie Peacock stated the move is about making services safer and simpler while protecting citizens from fraudsters. Jonathon Ellison, Director for National Resilience at the National Cyber Security Centre, described passkeys as a phishing-resistant alternative to passwords, which remain a common target for cyber criminals. He encouraged widespread adoption to raise the collective resilience of the UK.