Is Google Chrome Password Manager safe?

If you’re using Google Chrome and Android, you’ve most likely heard of Google Password Manager. 

It’s Google’s very own password manager integrated directly into the Chrome web browser that allows you to store your passwords and autofill those blanks when signing in to different websites. Convenient, right? But is it safe? 

When it comes to digital security, you can never be too sure. Even big tech companies like Apple and Google have experienced cyberattacks in the past. And recently, you’ve probably heard stories of hacking, scams, and identity theft happening left and right. 

If you’re planning on using Google Password Manager, it’s important that you first learn not just what it is or how to use it, but how safe the tool really is.

That’s why we examined Google’s official sources and studied in-depth how its Password Manager works. We also looked into feedback from actual users, and tried using it as well to better understand its features and functions.

Don’t miss out on essential tips or you’ll keep yourself vulnerable. Keep reading until the very end so you can learn the most crucial factor in keeping your accounts safe and making Google’s Password Manager work for you. 

How safe is Google Password Manager?

Google Password Manager is a feature of the Google Chrome web browser that lets you store your passwords in a secure, encrypted location. 

When you enter a password on a website, Chrome will ask if you want to save it. If you say yes, it’ll be stored in your Google Account. The next time you visit the website, Chrome will automatically fill in the password for you. 

Now, there’s no doubt that it’s an extremely convenient tool. After all, it’s designed to save you time by automatically filling in your passwords. But is it safe? 

That’s a question many people are asking, given Google’s recent history of data breaches.  

There are a few things to consider when answering this. 

First, it’s important to understand how Google Password Manager works. Essentially, it stores your passwords in the cloud, which means they’re accessible from anywhere. However, this also means that they’re potentially vulnerable to hacking. 

Google says that it takes security seriously and that its systems are “designed to protect your information from unauthorized access.” 

But given the company’s track record, it’s understandable why some people remain skeptical.

Second, Google stores your passwords in your account, which means they’re available to anyone who can log in to it. If you’re signed in to your Google Account on a public computer, for example, someone could potentially gain access to your passwords.

Additionally, if you use the same password for multiple websites, a hacker could access all of your accounts if they’re able to steal your password from one site.

On the bright side, even if Google Password Manager itself is hacked, your passwords aren’t necessarily compromised. 

That’s because the service uses encryption to keep your data safe. So while it’s possible that hackers could get their hands on your passwords if they breach Google’s systems, they wouldn’t be able to read them.

Here are a few Google Password Manager security features:

1. On-device encryption

Google’s Password Manager offers on-device encryption. It means that you can encrypt your passwords first before the details are stored on Password Manager, which adds another layer of security.

However, it’s essential that you don’t forget your key because you’ll also lose all your passwords.

2. Password Check

Google’s Password Manager allows you to assess your stored passwords and prompt you to change them. You’ll also get a notification if you use a compromised password when you sign in to your accounts.

All things considered, there’s no easy answer to the question of whether or not Google Password Manager is safe. 

It’s a convenient way to store your passwords and keep them accessible from anywhere. On the other hand, there are some security concerns that you should be aware of before using the service.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not the convenience is worth the risk. 

To help you make that decision, here are a few reasons why a password manager will be helpful for you, as well as some potential drawbacks of using them.

Why do you need a password manager?

In general, a password manager is a tool that helps you create strong passwords for all of your online accounts. It then stores those passwords in a secure location so you don’t have to remember them.

There are a few reasons you might need it:

• Password managers help you create strong, unique passwords

This is extremely important for securing your online accounts. It can help prevent hackers who get the password to one of your accounts from easily accessing all of your other accounts.

• Keeps you safe on public Wi-Fi

If you use public Wi-Fi, it’s important to use a VPN to protect your data. But even with a VPN, it’s still best to use a password manager. 

That’s because some VPNs have been known to leak data. If you use a password manager, your passwords will be encrypted and stored locally on your device, so they’ll be safe even if your VPN leaks your data.

• They help you keep track of your passwords

It can be difficult to remember all of your different passwords, especially if you have a lot of accounts. A password manager can help by storing all of your passwords in one secure location and auto sign in to the sites with your stored credentials.

This is good if you’re the only one who uses your computer. But if you share with other family members or co-workers, turn off the auto sign-in button.

What are the drawbacks to using password managers?

Password managers aren’t all sunshine and rainbows. Like everything else, they also have their own set of drawbacks, which include:

• Inability to recover passwords without your master password

If you forget your master password, you won’t be able to access your passwords. That’s why it’s important to choose a strong master password and to store it in a safe location.

• Can be taken advantage of by hackers

If a hacker gains access to your device, they could potentially gain access to your passwords. That’s why it’s important to use a passcode, fingerprint, or Face ID authentication on your devices.

• Tend to leak data

While password managers leaking data is rare, it’s still something to keep in mind. If you’re concerned about this, there are offline password managers you can use, and we’ll talk more about this in the following sections.

With these in mind, make sure that you choose a password manager that you can trust.

Google Chrome Password Manager pros and cons

Like all other platforms, Google Password Manager also has its pros and cons.

PROS	CONS
Convenient way to store your passwordsCompatible with all devices that have Google ChromeAutomatically fills in your passwordsUses encryption to keep your data safeAccessible from anywhere	Accessible to anyone who has access to your Google accountHackers could gain access to your other accounts if they can open your Google Password Manager and you have the same password for multiple websitesConcerns about the security of the service, given Google’s history of data breaches

How to use Google’s Password Manager

The most crucial factor in keeping your accounts safe from hackers is to have strong parent login credentials. Your parent login is the main password that you’ll use to open your Password Manager, and if it’s not strong enough, hackers can crack it and access all your passwords to other accounts.

Additionally, you can further strengthen the security of your account by taking steps like enabling two-factor authentication, which we’ll describe further in the following sections. 

If you do decide to use Google’s Password Manager, make sure you know how to do the following:

How to set up and secure your Google Password Manager

1. First, you need to create a Google account. If you don’t already have one, you can create one here. Make sure to use a strong password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Once you have a Google account, your Password Manager should already be active. However, there are a few extra steps you should take to secure it. 

2. Start off by enabling two-factor authentication. This will help keep your account safe if your password is compromised.

To do this, go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” Then, scroll down to “Two-step verification” and click on “Get Started.” You’ll be prompted to enter your password first.

If you’re using Chrome or if you’re logged in to your Google account on other devices, you’ll be shown a list of those devices that can get prompts whenever you login. 

If you don’t have other devices, click on “Show more options” and choose one that works for you. You can opt for Google’s backup codes, Authenticator App, or security key. The simplest, however, is to use prompts.

Next, click “Continue.” You’ll now be prompted to add another backup option with a contact number. Google will then send you a verification code, which you’ll have to input on your screen. 

3. Click on “Turn On,” and your 2-step verification should now be enabled. If you want to take this even further, you can still add more verification steps using the same methods we mentioned above.

How to add passwords manually to Google Password Manager

If you already have strong passwords for your online accounts, you can add them to Google Password Manager manually. To do this:

1. Go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” Then, scroll down to “Password Manager.”
2. Click on the gear icon, and click on “Export Passwords.” This should download a CSV file titled “Google Passwords.” 
3. You can now use this file to add your passwords manually. Make sure to follow the format provided by the file. 
4. When you’re done adding your passwords, go back to your browser, but this time, click on “Import passwords.” Select the CSV file that you added your passwords to, click on “Open,” and finally, click on “Import.” 

Now, when you go to those websites, Google will automatically fill in your username and password for you.

How to add Passwords via autosave in Google Password Manager

If you use Google Chrome, you can add passwords to your password manager automatically. 

1. Go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” 
2. Scroll down to “Password Manager” and click on the gear icon. 
3. Turn on “Offer to save passwords.”

Now, when you log in to a website, Google will ask if you want to save your password. If you click “Yes,” your password will be saved in your password manager.

How to edit passwords in Google Password Manager

If you need to change a password for one of your online accounts, you can do so in Google Password Manager. 

1. Go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” 
2. Scroll down to “Password Manager” and click on the site or app you want to change.
3. Enter your computer’s password. 
4. Click “Edit,” enter your new password, and click “Save.” 

Now, when you go to that website, Google will automatically fill in your details with your new password.

How to delete passwords in Google Password Manager

If you ever want to delete a password from Google Password Manager, you can do it one by or clear all of them.

If you want to delete just a couple of passwords:

1. Go to your Google account settings and click on “Security.” 
2. Scroll down to “Password Manager” and click on the site or app you want to change.
3. Enter your computer’s password. 
4. Click “Delete,” and you’ll be asked to confirm your decision to delete the save password.
5. Click “Delete” again and your saved password should now be gone.  

If you want to delete all of your saved passwords:

1. Go to History and Click “Clear browsing data.”
2. Click “Advanced.”
3. Tick the box that says “Passwords and other sign-in data.”
4. Click “Clear Data” to finish it.

Best Google Password Manager alternatives

If you’re looking for an alternative to Google Password Manager, there are a few options available.

Dashlane

Dashlane gives you access to features like military-grade encryption, two-factor authentication, and more. Plus, Dashlane can also help you generate strong passwords for new accounts and keep track of your existing passwords. 

Overall, Dashlane is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to take their online security to the next level.

Tips for a strong master password

When you’re creating a new master password, keep the following tips in mind so you can come up with the most secure master password.

• Be sure to mix letters, numbers, and special characters. 
• Avoid using common words or easily guessed phrases. The longer your password is, the better.
• If you’re having trouble coming up with a strong password, you can use a password generator like LastPass or 1Password.
• Once you’ve created a strong master password, be sure to never write it down or store it anywhere online. Make sure that it’s something that you’ll remember, as most password managers won’t allow you to reset your master password.

Conclusion

Password managers are essential tools for anyone who wants to keep their online accounts safe and secure. With a password manager in place, you can rest assured that your online accounts will be well-protected from hackers.

Google Password Manager is safe. However, as with any password manager, however, you should never be too complacent. 

Like any other online platform, Google Password manager also has its weaknesses. Always make sure you take extra steps to secure your information.