What Is a Security Key and How Does It Work?
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If you're looking for help with keeping your account secure, follow these tips
.
Learn about security keys and how they work.
A security key is a small hardware device which can be used to help keep your Facebook account secure. Security keys are a method of two-factor authentication that adds a layer of security to logging in, often used on top of other two-factor authentication methods like text message (SMS) codes
or a third-party authentication app
. Adding a security key is one of the best ways to keep your account secure because when the key is in your physical possession, only you can authorize a login to your account, even if the password is entered correctly. After you register a security key to your account, login attempts from an unrecognized browser or untrusted device will be prompted to physically authorize the login attempt via your security key.
In order to add a security key to your account
, you’ll first need to purchase your own third party Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) or FIDO2 security key
. Some types of keys can be used by inserting them into a USB or lightning port. Other types of keys can be used by holding them near your computer or mobile device. Before purchasing, make sure that your security key is compatible with the browser and the device that you use to log into your account.
Add a security key to your account or log in with one
You can get started by learning how to add a security key to your account
. If you’ve already added a key to your account, you can learn how to log in with your key
.
Avoid getting locked out of your account if you lose your security key
To make sure that you are not locked out of your account if you lose your security key, you'll need to set up an additional backup two-factor authentication security method. The most secure method is to set up multiple keys for your account. If you don't have a second key, you can enroll in another two-factor authentication security method such as text message (SMS) codes
or a third-party authentication app
.
Authenticate a login attempt on a browser or device that doesn’t support security keys
Security keys are only supported by certain browsers ( Chrome
, Opera
, Firefox
, Edge
, or Safari
) and mobile devices. If you want to be able to authorize a login attempt from a browser or device that doesn't support security keys, you’ll have to set up an additional backup two-factor authentication security method such as text message (SMS) codes
or a third-party authentication app
.
What happens if you lose your security key?
Security keys are not a replacement for your password. If your key is lost or stolen, the person in possession of your key will not be able to log into your account without also knowing your username and password.
To make sure that you are not locked out of your account if you lose your security key, you'll need to set up an additional backup two-factor authentication security method. The most secure method is to set up multiple keys for your account. If you don't have a second key, you can enroll in another two-factor authentication security method such as text message (SMS) codes
or a third-party authentication app
.
Other Useful Resources
Your security key can be used with other websites
while also being used for your Facebook account.
If you're having trouble adding or using your security key, try clearing your cache and temporary data
. You can also try restarting your computer or mobile device.
If you're running Linux, you'll need to follow this additional step
to use your security key.
