Traditional passwords are widely seen as the weakest link in current security protocols, and many have called for them to be discontinued at the earliest opportunity. However, even though alternatives have been available for some time, the sheer ubiquity of alphanumeric passwords means that getting rid them isn’t a straightforward process.
This is why password managers – especially ones that generate and save unique passwords for each different account – can be so valuable.
The most popular password manager remains that which is built into Google Chrome, as it doesn’t require users to buy or download any additional software but is instead bundled into the browser.
It’s also handy for those logged into Chrome across multiple devices, as passwords are connected to the account not the device, so can be easily used across laptops, tablets and smartphones.
This is all well and good, but what about those circumstances where you need to find a password as it may not be auto-filling on the page, or you have to make a change if an amend hasn’t saved?
Thankfully, the process is very simple once you know where to look.
From within Chrome, simply tap the three dots on the top-right of the screen to open the menu and click settings. From here you can go through Autofill > Password Manager, or for ease simply search ‘password’ instead.
It’s a similar story on Android mobile devices, with the ‘Password & security’ section under Settings – or simply search to go straight in.
You’re also likely to need to use your device password or biometrics to then view each entry (which will otherwise be hashed).
Within Password Manager you can see a list of all the accounts for which you have login details and can select them to view or edit.
Another added benefit is the notification of how many passwords you have which could have been disclosed through a hack or security breach. Google will present you with the compromised passwords (if indeed there are any), which you can then set about updating to ensure you don’t fall victim to a scam or hack in future.
