Enter password or insert USB stick: Firefox adds new log-in technique

The Firefox browser has introduced a new technique for logging into websites that requires only a USB stick. — dpa

The popular Firefox browser now allows you to sign in to websites and online services without a password. Thanks to the WebAuthn interface newly integrated in version 60, you'll only need a special USB flash drive, also known as a token, for logging in.

However, the respective service will also have to support this authentication method in order for this to work. It's expected that the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) will make it an Internet standard soon.

Alternatively, a WebAuthn token can also be used as a so-called second factor for log-ins in order to make your account even more secure. This means that in addition to typing in your password, you'll also have to present additional identification by using the token. This method is known as two-factor authentication (2FA). — dpa