Google launches new Titan Security Key that aims to foil phishing attacks

• Google’s latest feature is a step further than the traditional two-step authentication, asking a user to input a physical key apart from their password.
• The device is unique as it features a custom firmware developed by the tech giant.

Google has announced the launch of a new physical security device called the Titan Security Key, to enhance users’ online security.

The official page of Google’s Titan Security Key claims that the Advanced Protection Program will help safeguard the personal Google accounts of any user who is at risk of being targeted by attackers including journalists, activists, business leaders, and politician campaign teams.

The Titan Security Key is more than the traditional two-step authentication, and asks a user to input a physical key apart, from his/her password, that is used to sign into a Google account.

The device is designed to deter hackers from getting a hold of user data and selling it on the dark web. Since the key does not rely on one-time passwords sent over SMS or generated by an app, there is less chance for attackers to intercept these codes and hack into a user’s Google account.

XDA Developer reported that device is unique as it features a custom firmware developed by the company.

The Titan Security Key will be available to users in two formats - as a USB and as an NFC/Bluetooth. The price of this device is said to be around $20 or $25.

Previously, Google had introduced Yubico’s Yubikey to provide online security to its users. However, it did not support Bluetooth, instead, merely offering customers more choices to secure their accounts. But now, the company’s Titan Security Key offers the Bluetooth option as well.

"We’ve long advocated the use of security keys as the strongest, most phishing-resistant authentication factor for high-value users, especially cloud admins, to protect against the potentially damaging consequences of credential theft.," said Jennifer Lin, product management director at Google Cloud in a blog post.

“Titan Security Key gives you even more peace of mind that your accounts are protected, with assurance from Google of the integrity of the physical key.” Lin added. “Titan Security Keys are available now to Google Cloud customers and will be available for anyone to purchase on the Google Store soon.”