Protecting access to systems and data has never been more important – or more challenging. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) used to be the gold standard for secure access, but it’s basically the bare minimum now. As cyber threats get sharper and attackers find new ways to bypass traditional methods like SMS codes and authenticator apps, businesses need to think bigger—and smarter.
Passkeys present a simpler, stronger way to protect access without the friction. With big names like Apple and Google taking the leap back in 2022, passkeys are shaping the future of modern MFA and pushing security standards like Cyber Essentials to evolve. In this post, we’ll break down why passkeys matter, the risks of sticking with outdated tools, and how your business can stay one step ahead.
The Limitations of Traditional MFA
When multi-factor authentication (MFA) first became mainstream, it was a game-changer. Asking users for a second proof of identity—like an SMS code or a code from an authenticator app—added an extra layer of protection beyond passwords. But today’s attackers are starting to catch up – this article from Forbes specifically highlights a new threat that can bypass two-factor authentication
SIM-swapping attacks, phishing tactics, and even “MFA fatigue”—where users accidentally approve fraudulent requests—are now common ways to sidestep traditional MFA. Even methods once considered secure are showing cracks under pressure.
For businesses looking to stay locked down, especially those aiming to meet standards like Cyber Essentials, relying on outdated MFA risks leaving compliance gaps and exposing critical systems to avoidable threats. To stay resilient in a fast-moving threat landscape, organisations need to embrace modern MFA approaches that are designed to handle today’s risks, not yesterday’s.
What Are Passkeys and How Do They Work?
Passkeys are the next evolution of secure authentication, designed to replace passwords and traditional MFA altogether. Instead of relying on something you know (like a password) or something you have to input manually (like a one-time code), passkeys work behind the scenes using cryptographic keys.
How passkeys work
When you create a passkey, your device generates two linked keys:
- A public key: stored by the service you’re accessing
- A private key: securely stored on your device and never shared
These keys work together like a lock and key: the public key is the lock, and only the private key can unlock it. When you log in, the service sends a one-time cryptographic challenge. Your device uses the private key to sign this challenge, and the service verifies it using the stored public key.
Because the private key never leaves your device and nothing sensitive is transmitted, passkeys are highly resistant to phishing, interception, and credential theft. It’s a seamless, secure exchange that protects users without added friction.
A simpler, safer login experience
For users, passkeys feel effortless. Instead of passwords or verification codes, you just:
- Scan your fingerprint
- Use face recognition
- Enter your device PIN
It’s faster, easier, and far more secure than anything based on memorising or typing credentials. In short, it’s modern MFA done right: secure by design and frictionless by nature.
The Benefits of Passkeys for Businesses
Because passkeys are resistant to phishing, password reuse, and interception, they significantly raise the bar for cyber security. Attackers can’t trick users into handing over login details they don’t know or intercept codes that are never sent.
Simpler for users – and your IT team
Passkeys eliminate most password-related human error – a leading cause of data breaches, often cited as responsible for around 95% of all cyber security issues. Users no longer need to remember complex credentials or juggle one-time passcode apps for passkey-enabled services. And because passkeys are cryptographically bound to the legitimate site, they’re inherently resistant to phishing.
For IT teams, that means:
- Fewer password resets
- Lower helpdesk overhead
- Happier, safer users
Adopting passkeys also supports compliance by aligning with Cyber Essentials’ requirements for strong authentication, which helps to close the gaps left behind by legacy password and OTP-based methods.
Stronger compliance and Cyber Essentials alignment
Switching to passkeys isn’t just about convenience – it’s also a smart move for meeting and exceeding Cyber Essentials standards. Passkeys offer a robust, modern approach to identity verification, helping businesses close common compliance gaps linked to outdated authentication methods.
Passkey benefits at a glance
- Phishing-resistant: Private keys never leave the device
- Easy to use: No more passwords to remember or codes to copy
- Lower support costs: Fewer login issues and resets
- Stronger compliance: Aligns with modern MFA best practices and strengthens your cyber security posture
The Risks of Sticking with MFA
While traditional MFA still plays an important role in many security strategies, its effectiveness is starting to show limits – particularly against more advanced threats like phishing and social engineering. Attackers have become adept at tricking users into approving fraudulent requests or entering codes on fake login pages.
This is where passkeys offer a significant improvement. Because they’re tied to the device and cryptographically linked to the genuine site, they can’t be reused or phished, helping to close a key gap in traditional MFA approaches.
Compliance risks and reputational damage
As standards like Cyber Essentials evolve, so do the expectations around authentication. Sticking with outdated MFA could put your certification—and your credibility—at risk. If your defences don’t hold up under scrutiny, you risk financial penalties, operational disruption, and loss of client trust.
The business cost of standing still
Choosing not to modernise your security measures can lead to:
- Increased cyber-attack risk
- Missed compliance requirements
- Higher IT support costs from password and login issues
- Damaged reputation in competitive markets
Preparing Your Business for the Passkey Transition
Adopting passkeys should be viewed as a transition rather than a switch you flip. Businesses can—and should—start by assessing where passkeys can fit into their existing security framework without disrupting operations.
First steps to get started:
- Audit your current authentication setup: Identify where traditional MFA is used and assess the associated risks.
- Prioritise critical systems: Start with the applications and services that hold sensitive data or are business-critical.
- Educate your team: Introduce the concept of passkeys early so users understand the benefits and feel confident adopting them.
- Update security policies: Begin shaping internal policies around modern MFA approaches, ensuring future compatibility with frameworks like Cyber Essentials.
A trusted partner makes the transition easier
With the right IT support, moving to passkeys can be smooth, strategic, and fully aligned with broader cyber security goals. Redinet helps businesses assess readiness, plan deployments, and embed passkeys into a future-proofed authentication strategy.
Redinet: Helping Businesses Stay Secure and Ahead
Cyber threats aren’t standing still, and your authentication strategy shouldn’t either.
While traditional MFA served its purpose (and reliably continues to do so), the future belongs to smarter, stronger, and simpler solutions like passkeys. By adopting modern MFA practices now, businesses can not only boost their cyber security but also stay fully aligned with evolving standards like Cyber Essentials. Passkeys aren’t perfect, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges – enough for the NCSC’s Chief Technical Officer to give them a resounding ‘yes.’
At Redinet, we don’t just keep businesses protected; we help them get ahead.
From strengthening traditional MFA setups to designing passkey-based strategies, we guide organisations through the shift to modern MFA with clarity and confidence.
Our expert-led approach ensures every solution we recommend aligns with your compliance goals, including Cyber Essentials certification. And because we believe in building future-ready security, we help you prepare for what’s next while also reacting to today’s risks.
The shift might feel new, but with the right support, it’s a clear step toward stronger protection, smoother operations, and lasting competitive advantage.
Ready to speak to an expert? We’re ready to help you stay secure long-term.
