The UK's National Cyber Security Centre and Government Digital Service have enabled biometric passkey sign-in for GOV.UK One Login, the single account used to access services like tax management, State Pension checks, childcare support and driver's license renewals. The rollout reaches roughly 23 million users.
Passkeys replace passwords and SMS codes with a cryptographic, device-bound credential unlocked by a fingerprint, face scan or PIN, and are up to eight times faster to use than typing a password plus a one-time code. Because the secret never leaves the user's device, there is nothing for an attacker to phish or intercept. During an earlier trial, over 300,000 users switched to passkeys, and passkeys already account for nearly 1 in 10 daily sign-ins.
Digital Government Minister Stephanie Peacock said the move would "simplify access to essential government services while strengthening protection against password-related fraud." Passwords remain available for anyone who prefers them, but the government estimates the shift is already saving taxpayers close to £600 a day in SMS one-time-passcode costs.