VicRoads launches passkeys to enhance online security

VicRoads has rolled out an initiative to enhance customer online security with the introduction of passkeys, offering a simpler and more secure way for customers to access their myVicRoads accounts.

Using fingerprints, facial recognition, a PIN or a swipe pattern, passkeys eliminate the need for a password and provide more security for VicRoads customers by reducing the risk of phishing attacks. VicRoads joins Telstra, myGov and UBank as one of the first organisations in Australia to introduce passkeys.

Crispin Blackall, VicRoads Chief Technology Officer, said the introduction of passkeys is a key milestone in the organisation’s digital transformation and aligns with its focus on modernising registration and licensing products and services.

“The introduction of passkeys is a demonstration of our commitment to our 4.8 million myVicRoads customers, and the experience they have when interacting with our services,” he said. “It’s fantastic to see our customers are already embracing the technology. Our introductory pilot program has resulted in the creation of over 200,000 passkeys, with adoption on the latest smartphones, tablets and computers that support passkey technology exceeding 50%.”

The announcement follows new research from the FIDO Alliance which found growing consumer demand for passkey adoption as individuals increasingly recognise the limitations of passwords, preferring more secure and customer-friendly authentication methods.

“Customers are quickly realising the benefits of passkeys,” said Andrew Shikiar, CEO and Executive Director of the FIDO Alliance. “Since passkeys first launched in 2022, more than 20% of the world’s top 100 websites and services have now adopted the technology.

“This accounts for more than 13 billion accounts worldwide that can use passkeys to log in.”

VicRoads registers more than 6 million vehicles annually and licenses more than 5 million drivers. VicRoads Registration & Licensing operates as a joint venture partnership with the Victorian Government, Aware Super, Australian Retirement Trust and Macquarie Asset Management.

Image credit: iStock.com/ArtemisDiana