In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, securing your cryptocurrency assets while maintaining seamless access is more important than ever. The OKX app now supports passkeys—a next-generation authentication method that replaces traditional passwords with secure, biometric-based or hardware-backed login and transaction verification. This guide walks you through the complete setup process, ensuring your account remains both highly secure and easy to use.
Whether you're using an iPhone, Android device, or even a physical security key, OKX’s passkey system offers flexible, robust protection tailored to your needs. Let’s dive into how you can enable and manage this powerful security feature.
Why Use Passkeys on OKX?
Passkeys are part of a global shift toward passwordless authentication. Unlike static passwords that can be phished, leaked, or guessed, passkeys rely on public-key cryptography and device-level biometrics (like fingerprint or facial recognition). This means:
- No passwords to remember or store.
- Immunity to phishing attacks.
- Faster and more intuitive login experience.
- Stronger protection for high-risk actions like withdrawals and trades.
By setting up a passkey on the OKX app, you’re not just simplifying access—you're future-proofing your account security.
👉 Discover how easy it is to log in securely without a password.
Step 1: Complete Identity Verification
Before enabling passkeys, you must verify your identity within the OKX app. This ensures only authorized users can activate advanced security features.
Follow these steps:
- Open the OKX app and tap the menu icon (usually “≡” or "More") in the bottom-right corner.
- Navigate to Profile & Settings > Security Settings > Passkeys > Enable.
At this point, the system will prompt you to complete multi-factor authentication:
- Enter the SMS verification code sent to your registered phone number.
- Confirm via email verification code.
- Finalize with either biometric authentication (face or fingerprint) or your current login password.
Once verified, you'll proceed to create your first passkey.
Step 2: Create Your Passkey
You have three options for creating a passkey on OKX. Choose the one that best fits your usage pattern and security needs.
Option 1: Use Your Current Device as a Passkey
Ideal for daily use, this method turns your primary smartphone into a trusted authentication device.
Setup steps:
- Tap Continue.
- Authorize using your device’s biometric sensor (Touch ID, Face ID, etc.) or lock screen PIN/password.
- Upon successful authorization, your device becomes your passkey.
From now on, logging in or approving transactions will require only a quick biometric scan—no typing needed.
Option 2: Use Another Mobile Device or Tablet
If you want to access your OKX account securely from multiple devices—like a secondary phone or tablet—you can link them as additional passkeys.
How to set it up:
- Select Other Options.
- Choose iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
- A QR code will appear on your screen.
- On the second device, open the OKX app and scan the QR code.
- Follow the prompts to verify identity and complete binding.
Important notes:
- iOS users: Passkeys sync across devices under the same Apple ID via iCloud Keychain.
- Android users: Requires Google Play Services and access to Google’s ecosystem for cross-device sync.
This flexibility lets you maintain access even if your main device is unavailable—without compromising security.
👉 Learn how to securely use OKX across multiple devices.
Option 3: Use a Physical USB Security Key (iOS Only)
For users with heightened security requirements—such as institutional traders or long-term holders—a hardware-based solution provides maximum protection.
Supported devices:
- FIDO2-compliant USB security keys (e.g., YubiKey).
Setup process:
- Go to Other Options > Security Key.
- Plug the USB key into your iOS device (using an appropriate adapter if needed).
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete registration and verification.
This method ensures that even if your phone is compromised, attackers cannot access your account without physical possession of the key.
Step 3: Manage and Use Your Passkeys
After successful setup, return to the Passkeys section under Security Settings to view all linked authenticators. Each entry shows:
- Device name
- Creation date
- Type (device-based or hardware key)
When are passkeys used?
The OKX app automatically detects your registered passkey(s) during:
- Account login
- Cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals
- C2C trading confirmations
- Changing security settings
Instead of entering passwords or waiting for SMS codes, simply authenticate via biometrics or insert your hardware key—fast, secure, and seamless.
Best Practices for Passkey Management
To ensure uninterrupted access and optimal security:
✅ Always set up at least one backup passkey, such as a secondary phone or hardware key, in case your primary device is lost or damaged.
✅ Regularly review your linked passkeys and remove any you no longer use.
✅ Never share QR codes or allow others to scan them during setup.
✅ Keep your operating system and OKX app updated to benefit from the latest security patches.
If you change phones or reset your device, simply re-register using an existing passkey or recovery method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What exactly is a passkey?
A: A passkey is a modern, passwordless authentication method that uses public-key cryptography and biometrics (like fingerprint or face scan) to verify your identity securely—without relying on traditional passwords.
Q: Can I use passkeys on both Android and iOS?
A: Yes! Both platforms support device-based passkeys. However, hardware USB security keys are currently only supported on iOS devices.
Q: Are passkeys safer than two-factor authentication (2FA)?
A: In many ways, yes. While SMS-based 2FA is vulnerable to SIM-swapping and phishing, passkeys are resistant to these attacks due to their cryptographic design and local biometric validation.
Q: What happens if I lose my passkey device?
A: If you’ve set up a backup—such as another phone or a hardware key—you can use it to regain access. Otherwise, you may need to go through account recovery procedures via email and phone verification.
Q: Do I still need my password after setting up a passkey?
A: While the passkey enables password-free login, you may still need your password during certain recovery scenarios or when modifying critical account settings.
Q: Is there a cost to use passkeys on OKX?
A: No. Passkey functionality is completely free and included as part of OKX’s commitment to user security.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a passkey on the OKX app is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your digital assets while enhancing usability. By eliminating passwords and leveraging advanced encryption and biometrics, you gain peace of mind knowing your account is shielded from common cyber threats.
Whether you choose your current phone, a secondary device, or a dedicated hardware key, the choice empowers you to control how—and how securely—you interact with your crypto portfolio.
👉 Start using secure, password-free access today—set up your OKX passkey now.
With just a few taps, you can future-proof your account against evolving threats and enjoy smoother, faster interactions across all OKX services. Don’t wait—secure your crypto journey with cutting-edge authentication technology built for the modern user.