Google took an important step in protecting your data. Starting today, Chrome will implement an additional step by encrypt your passwords on the device. This feature turns your phone or computer into a key that is used to lock each key before it is stored in Password Manager. In practice, this means that you will need the device to access them, so no one can use them without your consent.
On-device encryption is offered as an additional measure of protection within Chrome. When activated, users will require unlock the password using the security mechanism of the device, such as fingerprint, PIN, facial recognition and more. Once you activate it there is no going back, so before doing so you must have the account recovery options enabled.
When on-device encryption is set up, your passwords can only be used on the device using your Google password or a compatible device’s screen lock. With on-device encryption, only you can access your passwords.
While encrypting your passwords on the device is an alternative to the rising tide of attacks from phishing, it also has its disadvantages. The most obvious is that the automatic login will not work on some sites, and in case you change your mobile you will have to use your Google account to restore access.
Google’s new encryption has some drawbacks
The technology company is very punctual in warning that if you lose the key, you will lose access to all your passwords.
The decision to migrate to a more secure system is due to the idea of eliminating conventional passwords and provide greater protection to the user. The current system encrypts passwords when they are sent over any network and when they are stored with Google.
The encryption key, which is used to access your passwords, is securely stored in your Google account. Google then uses this key to access (i.e. crack) your passwords when:
- You access them at passwords.google.com, on your supported devices, or in Chrome settings.
- Your passwords are checked for security issues in Password Checkup.
How to configure password encryption on the device?
To access this option it is recommended to enable account recovery options, a vital step that must be active yes or yes in case of an emergency. Once done you can activate password encryption on the device by following these steps.
Android:
- Open the password manager.
- Tap Settings
option to configure encryption on the device.
iOS:
- Go to Google’s password manager (passwords.google.com).
- Select Settings
.
- Choose Set up.
Computer:
You can set up password encryption on the device from the web and in Chrome
From the website:
- Go to passwords.google.com.
- Click Settings
.
- Click the option to configure encryption on the device.
from Chrome
What happens if I lose my access to the device?
If you lose your Google password or can’t access your device because you forgot your PIN or can’t unlock it, say goodbye to your passwords. If you buy a new iPhone or Android, you only need to sign in to your Google account to recover them.
