The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) announced at CYBERUK 2026 in Glasgow that it will begin recommending the use of passkeys wherever a service supports them, and two-step verification (2SV) where it does not.
A passkey is a way to sign in that does not use a password. Instead, your account is linked to a device you own, such as a phone or computer. When you log in, the service asks your device to confirm it is you, and you approve this by unlocking the device with a fingerprint, face scan or PIN.
Based on analysis carried out by the NCSC, it has been concluded that passkeys provide stronger protection for users than traditional 2SV, which can be vulnerable to phishing. According to the NCSC, phishing is one of the most persistent causes of cyber compromise.
The NCSC point out that, as with any security control, passkeys need to be implemented and used sensibly to be most effective. Users will still depend on the security of their devices and credential managers.
See: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/blogs/passkeys-are-more-secure-than-traditional-ways-to-log-in
“Owners of dodgy shops that are evading tax: we are coming for you,” said Dan Tomlinson, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, as he announced that HMRC will make 30,000 high-street ‘interventions’ in the coming year as part of an initiative to tackle tax fraud and illegal activity.
The announcement of mandatory payrolling for Benefits In Kind was originally expected to start in April 2027, but following industry pressure, it will now be introduced in two phases.
