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Ask HN: Why do many websites use a sign-in code instead of a password?

5•bariumbitmap•1h ago
I've noticed several websites that exclusively a single-use login code for authentication. This is a 4-digit or 6-digit login code sent via email instead of a password, it's not 2FA or a passkey. (I would rather they don't do this as it means I have to open my email instead of using a password manager.) Some of them also send a magic link. Examples of websites that appear to do this exclusively (no password): substack.com, medium.com, geoguessr.com, bandsintown.com. There are also websites that default to this but will also accept passwords (e.g. spotify.com). There are also websites that will accept either a passwords or login code, but if you enter a password then they require a login code anyway (e.g. homedpot.com).

Is this becoming more common, and if so why?

Comments

nirmeet011011•1h ago
well more security,if you just need to enter your password,friends and family,someone might already know so instead they send a email.
esafak•1h ago
So you don't have to remember, and they don't have to store, yet another password.

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