Unpacking Passkeys Pwned: Possibly the most specious research in decades

The article discusses the recent research claiming to have "pwned" passkeys, which are considered a more secure alternative to traditional passwords. The researchers argue that when the endpoint device is compromised, the security of passkeys is also compromised. However, the article suggests that this research is "specious," meaning it is of questionable validity or soundness. It emphasizes that when an endpoint is compromised, the security of any authentication method, including passwords, can be undermined. The article highlights that the research fails to acknowledge the inherent security advantages of passkeys over passwords, such as their resistance to phishing and the lack of a centralized database that could be breached. It cautions that researchers should be more careful in their claims and ensure that their findings are not misleading or exaggerated. Overall, the article suggests that while the research raises valid concerns about the security of passkeys in the event of a compromised endpoint, it lacks the nuance and context necessary to accurately assess the true security benefits and limitations of this emerging authentication technology.