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Home / Hot Stuff / Smartphones / The YubiKey 5Ci is the world’s first physical security key for both Lightning and USB-C devices

The YubiKey 5Ci is the world’s first physical security key for both Lightning and USB-C devices

Open sesame

We’re all for online security, but remembering multiple passwords and constantly waiting for two-factor authentication messages and codes can be a bit of a pain. Obviously, we’re not suggesting you ignore those methods, but what if there was an easier way to securely access your favourite apps and services? Well, there is, and its called a YubiKey. Supposedly the first security key that’s both Lightning and USB-C compatible, the YubiKey 5Ci ($70) is a physical key that can be plugged into iPhones, Macs, iPads, and other devices to authenticate and securely access apps in a jiffy. The 5Ci is already compatible with hundreds of services like 1Password, Dashlane, and LastPass, and once registered will allow you to securely access some of your most-used accounts and apps by simply inserting the YubiKey and tapping the gold contact. Who knew digital security could be so simple?

Profile image of Chris Kerr Chris Kerr Contributor, Stuff.tv

About

I’m a freelance games and technology journalist currently mashing my keyboard in the name of fine institutions like Stuff, where you'll usually find me waxing lyrical about the latest mobile morsels. I've also been known to cook up some decidedly delicious reviews from time to time, and was once dubbed 'the games industry's answer to Nigella Lawson' by someone probably somewhere.

Areas of expertise

Video games, computing, smartphones, home entertainment, lamps

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