Yubico’s new security keys have fingerprint readers for added protection

Yubico’s latest physical security keys have another layer of security: fingerprint readers. The YubiKey Bio series is the company’s first line with built-in biometric authentication for password-less and second-factor logins.

You can use the keys on desktop platforms that support WebAuthn, including Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux operating systems, and Chromium-based browsers, including Edge and Chrome. With the Yubico Authenticator for Desktop app, users can add and remove fingerprints. If for some reason you cannot use the fingerprint reader, you can enter a PIN code instead.

YubiKey Bio devices support FIDO2 / WebAuthn and U2F protocols, as well as YubiEnterprise subscription service. You will be able to use the same key for a variety of operating systems and desktop devices. It will work with any application or service that supports FIDO protocols, including Citrix Workspace, GitHub, IBM Security Verify, and Microsoft 365.

Yubico has opted for a three-chip architecture, which allows it to separately store fingerprint data on a secure element. The company says it offers “enhanced protection against physical attacks.”

YubiKey Bio keys are available on Yubico’s website in USB-A or USB-C formats. The USB-A model costs $ 80 and the USB-C $ 85.