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Google Ads Adds Passkey Protection for Sensitive Account Changes

Learn how passkeys protect your Google Ads account and how to create, use, and manage one.

As of July 15, 2026, Google Ads may require a passkey before users can complete sensitive account actions, such as changing user access, updating billing information, or linking accounts. Affected users are notified by email or directly within Google Ads.

A passkey confirms your identity through a trusted device using a fingerprint, facial recognition, screen-lock PIN, or security key. Because it cannot be copied or shared like a password, it provides stronger protection against phishing and unauthorized Google Ads account changes.

Google Ads Passkey Requirements

Before creating a passkey, make sure:

  • You are signed in to the Google account that has access to Google Ads.

  • You are using a trusted device that is not shared with other users.

  • Your device has a screen lock, such as a PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID.

  • Your device and browser are up to date.

  • You are not using Incognito or Private Browsing mode.

Google Ads supports Windows 10 or later, macOS Ventura or later, Android 9 or later, iOS 16 or later, and compatible ChromeOS devices. Supported browsers include current versions of Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox.

 How to Create a Passkey for Google Ads 

  1. Open your Google Account passkey settings.

  2. Confirm that you are signed in to the Google account connected to Google Ads.

  3. Select Create a passkey.

  4. Follow the prompts to verify your identity and save the passkey. 

You can create multiple passkeys for the same Google account. Google recommends creating one on each trusted device you regularly use to manage Google Ads.

New passkeys may take one to two days to pair with Google Ads. Some sensitive actions may remain temporarily unavailable during this security delay.

How to Sign In to Google Ads With a Passkey 

  1. Open the Google Ads sign-in page.

  2. Select the Google account you want to use.

  3. Choose an available passkey.

  4. Confirm your identity using your device’s fingerprint, face scan, PIN, or screen lock.

You can select Try another way if you need to use another available sign-in method. However, a passkey may still be required when completing sensitive actions within Google Ads.

Check Your Google Ads Passkey Status

To confirm that Google Ads recognizes your passkey:
  1. Sign in to Google Ads.
  2. Open Admin.
  3. Select Access and security.
  4. Review the Passkey status column.

A status of Enabled confirms that the user has a passkey connected to the account.

Once your passkey is set up, keep access to the device where it is stored whenever you manage Google Ads. This will help you complete any required identity checks without unnecessary delays.