How Google Workspace Is Fighting Cookie Theft with Passkeys and DBSC
Cybercriminals are finding new ways to bypass traditional authentication, and cookie theft has become one of their favorite tactics. Google Workspace is now stepping up security by introducing stronger, phishing-resistant authentication methods like passkeys and Device Bound Session Credentials (DBSC). If you're wondering how Google plans to stop cookie theft or why Workspace admins should consider enabling passkeys, this blog has you covered. Learn how passkeys improve login security, why DBSC is gaining traction, and what it all means for organizations using Google Workspace.
Why Cookie Theft Is a Serious Threat to Google Workspace Users
Cookie theft, often carried out through malware, involves stealing authentication tokens or cookies from a user's device. These stolen tokens can be used to hijack active sessions, allowing attackers to bypass even two-factor authentication (2FA). For organizations using Google Workspace, this creates a dangerous vulnerability. When a hacker has access to an authentication cookie, they can impersonate a user without needing credentials or additional verification.
This evolving threat is why Google is urging Workspace admins to tighten their security posture. Phishing and credential-based attacks are no longer limited to tricking users into entering passwords. Now, cybercriminals are targeting the digital session data that lives in browser cookies. And with the rise of remote and hybrid work setups, compromised devices pose an even greater risk across distributed teams.
How Passkeys Improve Workspace Security Against Phishing and Cookie Attacks
To combat this modern security threat, Google is rolling out passkeys for Google Workspace users. Over 11 million customers now have access to passkey support, which allows for secure, passwordless sign-ins. Unlike passwords, passkeys are tied to the user’s device and can’t be reused, guessed, or phished. They rely on biometrics (like a fingerprint or facial scan) or a secure PIN and are stored locally.
One of the key benefits of passkeys is their resistance to phishing. Since the private key never leaves the user’s device and can’t be shared, it’s virtually impossible for attackers to intercept it. Google reports that Workspace users who sign in using passkeys experience login times that are 40% faster compared to traditional passwords.
Admins can enforce passkey policies, audit enrollments, and even restrict sign-ins to physical security keys. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor their authentication methods based on their security needs. Passkeys not only boost safety but also simplify the login process for users across enterprise, nonprofit, and education sectors.
Device Bound Session Credentials: A New Layer of Protection for Google Workspace
Alongside passkeys, Google is introducing another layer of protection with Device Bound Session Credentials (DBSC). Still in development to become a broader web standard, DBSC binds a session cookie to the specific device from which a user authenticates. This means even if a cookie is stolen, it can’t be used on any other device.
This functionality is already available in Chrome on Windows and is being tested by select Workspace customers. With DBSC, cookies become useless to attackers who try to use them remotely. Only the original device used to initiate the session can access that cookie’s data. For Workspace admins, this is a promising defense mechanism against session hijacking.
Google’s commitment to DBSC shows its broader goal of creating a safer, standard-based web. While DBSC adoption is still in early stages, its impact could be transformative—especially for sectors like education and healthcare where privacy is critical.
Why Organizations Should Adopt Passkeys and DBSC in Google Workspace Now
The evolving landscape of cyber threats demands proactive security strategies. By implementing passkeys and DBSC, Google Workspace administrators can significantly reduce the risk of account takeovers, session hijacking, and phishing-related breaches. These tools not only strengthen security but also enhance user convenience and streamline access management.
If you're managing a Workspace environment, enabling passkey support and preparing for DBSC rollout should be on your priority list. These technologies are built to meet both current and future challenges of authentication. And because they reduce reliance on human memory and eliminate weak passwords, they’re a win for both IT departments and end users.
Ultimately, securing login sessions and credentials isn't just about staying ahead of attackers—it's about building trust in the systems that power your organization every day.
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