We replaced passwords with something worse

Aug 7, 2025 - 08:15
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We replaced passwords with something worse

Too many services have been using the following login method:

  • Enter an email address or phone number
  • The website will send a 6-digit code
  • Use the 6-digit code to log in

Please stop.

This is terrible for account security:

  • An attacker can simply send your email address to a legitimate service, and prompt for a 6-digit code. You can't know for sure if the code is supposed to be entered in the right place. Password managers (a usual defense against phishing) can't help you either.
  • In fact, this attack method has been successfully used in the wild: Microsoft's login for Minecraft accounts use this login method, and many accounts have been stolen already.

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