Whenever something new that can help protect your security pops up, you can count on me to make sure you know about it. Good news. Amazon just got on board the passkey train. Passkeys replace your (probably not that strong) password with something no one can hack: Your fingerprint or face ID.
A weak password brings all the hackers to the yard … and your Amazon cart, so this is a welcome addition to our cybersecurity arsenal. I’m not gonna lie, there are a few steps involved to get ‘er done — but follow the guide below and you’ll be up and running in no time.
Passkeys to the kingdom
The beauty of passkeys? They’re easier to use (no password remembering required) and super secure. A passkey lets you sign into your favorite apps and websites using a PIN, fingerprint or facial recognition.
One passkey is actually made up of two elements — a public key that’s registered with the account you have through a website or app. The other is kept privately stored on the device you use to log in. It never leaves your device, so it’s inherently safer than one a company stores on its servers.
When these powers are combined, you get a more hacker-proof sign-in process. Smell ya later, crooks.
Now repeat after me
You can do this from your computer or phone. Your call!
On the web:
- Go to Amazon.com, log into your account, hover over the Accounts & Lists button, then go to Account > Login & security.
- Enter your password once more. (Note: You’ll also be sent a verification code to enter.)
- Next to Passkey, click the Setup button. Click Setup again.
- If you already use a password manager, Amazon may ask if you want to store your passkey there.
From there, options will pop up based on the device you’re using and the others associated with your account. That might include your fingerprint, face, phone, or Google or Apple profile.
FYI, if your computer prompts you to use a physical security key, ignore it. Unless you have one, then good for you!
Through the app:
Note: Your phone needs to be updated to at least iOS 16 or Android 9.
- Sign into the app using your Amazon account credentials.
- Tap the profile icon on the bottom toolbar.
- Tap Your Account and Login & security under Account settings. If prompted, sign into your Amazon account again. (Note: You’ll also be sent a verification code to enter.)
- From the Login & security page, click the Setup button next to Passkey. Click Setup again on the following page.
Android users: A pop-up will ask if you want to create a passkey for Amazon Shopping. Click Continue, follow the steps on screen, and you’ll be all set.
iPhone users: You’ll get a prompt asking if you want to use Face ID or Touch ID to sign in. Pick your favorite, then Continue. That’s it!
😆 I ordered a deck of cards from Amazon. Two weeks later, it still hasn’t arrived. Customer service told me they’re dealing with it.