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Windows is asking for a security key when I don't have one.

Anonymous
2023-03-24T21:18:01+00:00

When I go to a web site using my browser and attempt to use autofill to make a purchase, I am shown a prompt to prove my identity. This prompt asks me to insert my security key into the USB port, but I don't have a security key and haven't set that up as a way to prove my identity. At that point my only option is to cancel autofill and enter the information manually.

I use the chrome browser, but I hear this happens using edge as well.

Since I don't have a security key and never set that up as a way to prove my identity, I shouldn't be prompted for it. "Managing" keys is not an option since one is then also prompted to enter one. Windows should understand that no key has been set up and that way of proving identity is not available and not prompt for a key. That is obviously a bug. The same methods of proving identity when logging into the computer should be used (facial recognition etc.)

Using the Windows Group Policy Editor -> Computer -> Administrative Templates -> Logon all the settings are not configured including "Turn on security key sign-in" which means that option is not available (and clearly shouldn't be prompted for).

Below is a screen print of the issue.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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  1. Anonymous
    2023-03-24T22:04:20+00:00

    Hi, RichardFrenkel,

    Sorry to hear you're experiencing this issue.

    This message could be shown if the option "Auto Sign-in" is disabled in the Google Chrome settings.

    1-Open the Google Chrome

    2-Click on the three dots(...) and click on Settings

    3-Click on Autofill then click on Password manager

    4-Make sure the option Auto Sign-in is On

    If the problems persist, you can try to reset the Chrome settings to their default.

    1-Open the Google Chrome

    2-Click on the three dots(...) and click on Settings

    3-Click on "Reset settings" then click on "Reset settings to their default" and confirm

    Note: This action will:

    • Reset Chrome settings and Chrome shortcuts

    • Disable extensions

    • Delete cookies and other temporary site data

    Bookmarks, history, and saved passwords won't be affected.

    5 people found this answer helpful.
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  1. Anonymous
    2023-06-07T18:07:05+00:00

    This happens in Microsoft Edge too. Nothing to do with Chrome. Bogus answer.

    30+ people found this answer helpful.
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  2. Anonymous
    2023-03-25T00:10:14+00:00

    Auto sign-in was enabled in Chrome. In any case the prompt for a card is erroneous when none exists and it isn't available as an authentication method. That is a function of the OS, so that's where the fix has to be made, right? Chrome autofill works on my Windows 10 machine, and it has the same setup. Also many people have noticed this problem when doing things besides Chrome autofill.

    10+ people found this answer helpful.
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  3. Anonymous
    2023-07-09T11:00:18+00:00

    I have same problem but this isnt caused by Chrome, I noticed when i tried to fill my password but when I opened windows settings, also it says usb device is configured and I cannot remove it. To remove I should plug security key. I am living alone and this is my home PC. It's so weird. :)

    7 people found this answer helpful.
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  4. Anonymous
    2023-08-21T18:21:46+00:00

    Issue has been seen with Edge and Chrome.

    I have this exact issue and I have not set up a key, not have I ever been promoted to provide or set one up. All of a sudden...

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    4 people found this answer helpful.
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