On iPad, Security Keys for your Apple Account is an optional security feature designed for people (such as celebrities, journalists, and members of government) who want extra protection from targeted attacks on their account, including phishing and social engineering scams.
A security key is a small third-party hardware device that you connect to your iPad to verify your identity when you sign in to your Apple Account. The physical key replaces the six-digit verification codes normally used in two-factor authentication, which keeps them from being intercepted or requested by an attacker. You need at least two keys, and you can pair up to six.
Set up security keys
Set up at least two security keys, so you’ve got a backup if one is lost, damaged, or stolen. Your account supports pairing up to six keys.
Note: NFC security keys are not currently supported on iPad.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap your name and tap Sign-In & Security.
- Tap Two-Factor Authentication, tap Security Keys, and then tap Add Security Keys and follow the onscreen instructions.
Sign in to a device, website, or app using a security key
- When prompted, insert your security key.
- Follow the onscreen instructions.
Use a security key to reset your Apple Account password
You can reset your Apple Account password with a security key that’s paired with your account if you forget it.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap your name and tap Sign-In & Security.
If you aren’t already signed in to your Apple Account on your iPad, first use your paired security key to sign in.
- Tap Change Password, then follow the onscreen instructions.
Use a security key to unlock your Apple Account
Six unsuccessful attempts in a row to sign in to your Apple Account, or other signs of suspicious activity your iPad detects, bring up an onscreen notification that your Apple Account is locked. To unlock it, use your security key.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap your name and tap Sign-In & Security.
- Tap Unlock Account and then follow the onscreen instructions to unlock your Apple Account.
- If you think your account might have been locked because someone else knows your password, tap Change Password and enter a new one.
- Tap Done.
Remove security keys
Your Apple Account takes up to six security keys. If you hit the limit and need to pair additional keys, remove one or more of your paired keys first, and replace removed keys whenever you like.
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Tap your name and tap Sign-In & Security.
- Tap Security Keys.
- To remove all keys, tap Remove All Keys, then tap Remove.
To remove individual keys, tap the ones you want to remove, then tap Remove Key.
Note: If you remove all security keys from your Apple Account, the account reverts to using six-digit verification codes for two-factor authentication.
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