Government to roll out passkey technology across digital services as an alternative to SMS-based verification.
Posted 13 May 2025
The UK government is set to roll out passkey technology for its digital services later this year. Passkeys will replace the current SMS-based verification system, which the government maintains offers a more secure and cost-effective solution – and one that could save several million pounds annually.
Passkeys are unique digital keys that are today tied to specific devices, such as a phone or a laptop. They help users log in safely without needing an additional text message or other code. When a user logs in to a website or app, their device uses this digital key to prove the user’s identity without needing to send a code to a secondary device or to receive user input.
This method is more secure because the key remains stored on the device and cannot be easily intercepted or stolen, making them phishing-resistant by design. As a result, even if someone attempts to steal a password or intercept a code, they would be unable to gain access without the physical device that contains the passkey.
The NCSC said it considers passkey adoption as vital for transforming cyber resilience at a national scale. The NHS is one of the first government organisations in the world to offer passkeys to users.
In addition to enhanced security and cost savings, passkeys offer users a faster login experience, it added, saving approximately one minute per login when compared to entering a username, password, and SMS code.
“The rollout of passkeys across GOV.UK services marks another major step forward in strengthening the UK’s digital defences while improving the user experience for millions,” said AI and Digital Government Minister Feryal Clark.
“Replacing older methods like SMS verification with modern, secure passkeys will make it quicker and easier for people to access essential services — without needing to remember complex passwords or wait for text messages.
“This shift will not only save users valuable time when interacting with government online, but it will reduce fraud and phishing risks that damage our economic growth.”
NCSC chief technical officer Ollie Whitehouse pointed out that the organisation’s stated objective for the UK is to move beyond passwords in favour of passkeys, as they are secure against common cyber threats such as phishing and credential stuffing.
“By adopting passkey technology, government is not only leading by example by strengthening the security of its services but also making it easier and faster for citizens to access them,” he said.
“We strongly advise all organisations to implement passkeys wherever possible to enhance security, provide users with faster, frictionless logins and to save significant costs on SMS authentication.”
The NCSC has also today announced that it has joined the FIDO Alliance, the global body shaping the future of password-free authentication.
“The UK government’s adoption of passkeys across its digital services reflects a profound decision that stands to protect UK citizens while providing the government with greater security and operational efficiency. By prioritising modern, phishing-resistant authentication, the UK is setting a strong example for both the public and private sectors in the UK and beyond,” said Executive director and CEO of the FIDO Alliance Andrew Shikiar.
“We’re also very pleased that the NCSC has joined the FIDO Alliance, which allows agencies across the UK government to collaborate with other thought leaders in the Alliance to advance the development and deployment of foundational technologies that will strengthen our collective cyber resilience.”
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest digital transformation news directly to your inbox.
Follow us on social media to keep up to date with the latest technology news.
Engage with our audience
Call for Speakers/Papers
Sustainability Policy
UK Modern Slavery Act Statement
Anti-Corruption Policy
Contact us
THINK Digital Partners
Sign up to our newsletter for a round-up of news.
© 2025 Copyright THINK Digital Partners.
Home | Privacy Policy | Contact