News

Passwords Are No Longer Required To Sign Into Google Accounts

Google will allow users to replace passwords and 2FA with passkeys.

Published

1 year ago

May 4, 2023

Nour Nasir

Google

Google has taken a step towards a passwordless future, announcing that passkey functionality is being added to all Google accounts.

Passkeys are cryptographic tools that allow users to ditch passwords and two-factor verification when signing in. Google, along with Apple and Microsoft, are keen to push the technology, which uses a local PIN or a device’s biometric tools such as fingerprint scanners or Face ID.

Biometric data from passkeys isn’t shared with third parties and only exists on a user’s device, providing enhanced security since no passwords can be hacked or stolen.

When a passkey is added to a Google account, users will be prompted for it on new sign-ins or when potentially suspicious activity is detected. Passkeys can be stored on any compatible hardware, including iPhones with iOS 16 and Android devices running Android 9 and above. Users can access passkeys on other devices by using services such as iCloud or password managers like 1Password. In addition, Google also allows the following:

Accounts can be accessed temporarily using someone else’s device by selecting “use a passkey from another device” to create a one-time sign-in.
Passkeys can be revoked immediately in the account settings section if a user suspects a security breach, or a device is lost or stolen.
Users of Google’s Advanced Protection Program (a free service providing additional security against phishing and malware) can use passkeys instead of physical security keys.

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If you’d prefer to log in to your account the traditional way, Google will continue to support regular passwords for the foreseeable future, allowing users without a biometric device to make the change once they eventually upgrade their hardware.

News

Mamo Completes $3.4M Funding Round To Enhance Fintech Services

The startup will use the influx of cash to expand into Saudi Arabia and across the wider GCC while improving its product offering.

Published

1 day ago

July 25, 2024

Nour Nasir

Mamo

UAE-based fintech Mamo has announced the completion of a $3.4 million funding round that will help the startup extend its market presence and improve its product offering. Investors included 4DX Ventures, the Dubai Future District Fund and Cyfr Capital.

Mamo’s platform offers “payment collection, corporate cards and expense management” to help small and medium-sized businesses consolidate and streamline their operations. With the latest influx of capital, Mamo will further develop its comprehensive suite of services and begin testing its product lines in Saudi Arabia, further extending its footprint across the GCC.

Imad Gharazeddine, co-founder and CEO of Mamo, stated: “We’ve been in the market for a while now and are incredibly proud of what our team has achieved. The holistic and expansive nature of our product offering has helped us continue to grow sustainably. This additional funding will allow us to reach our medium-term goals even faster. The support from new and existing investors is a testament to our strong expertise and the ability to deliver on our customer promise”.

Daniel Marlo, General Partner of lead investor 4DX Ventures, added: “We have immense trust in Imad’s vision, leadership and Mamo’s innovative approach to provide a user-friendly and comprehensive financial solution for SMEs that makes financial management more accessible and efficient. We are proud to partner with them and support their mission”.

Also Read: A Guide To Digital Payment Methods In The Middle East

Amer Fatayer, Managing Director of Dubai Future District Fund’s investment team, also commented: “Mamo’s localized product lines serve as an infrastructure for SME payments and spend management in UAE, a segment that is underserved by the country’s current banking infrastructure. The team has taken a product-first approach to consolidating SMEs’ financial journeys and building a fintech solution deeply embedded in a business’s core operations”.

To date, Mamo has raised around $13 million in investment funding and now boasts a team of 30 people. The company’s intuitive financial services platform has allowed over 1,000 businesses to consolidate their financial operations and significantly reduce payment fees.