Google’s new password manager is a free service that allows you to store, generate, and autofill your passwords across all of your devices. It is easy to use and very secure. The previous version they had until the last month or so was not all that secure. To use it, go to “chrome://password-manager/passwords” and sign in with your Google account if you are not already signed in. If you have not already done it, enable the password manager by clicking the “Offer to save passwords” toggle switch. From then on, when you visit a website or app that requires a password, Google will prompt you to save your password. Click “Save” to save your password in your Google accountIf you want to view your saved passwords, go to the same link as shown in the previous paragraph and click the “Passwords” tab.
As far as security goes, it uses 256-bit AES encryption to protect your passwords, and it is only accessible with your Google account password, which should already be very secure. Google also offers other features to help you keep your passwords safe. First, Google can generate strong passwords for you, so you do not have to worry about creating them yourself. Next, Google will periodically check your passwords for weaknesses and notify you if any of them have been compromised. Google will notify you if any of your passwords have been involved in a data breach. Google will also provide you with a set of backup codes that you can use to sign in to your account if you do not have access to your phone.
If you are not already using 2FA, or two-factor authentication, on Google, you should. It creates a “TOTP” (time-based one-time password) for you to use. To accomplish that, go to your Google Account, myaccount.google.com, on the left panel, select Security. Now, under “How you sign in to Google,” select “2-Step Verification” and click “Get Started.” Finally, just follow the on-screen steps. If you set it up with your phone, which is the better choice in my opinion, it will text you a 6-digit code for you to enter your Gmail or any Google account. It can also let you tap “Yes, it’s me” on your phone to access your account if you set it up like that. Just follow their instructions; I have found them easy to follow in the past.
I will get on my soapbox for just a moment, if you do not mind too much. If you do, STOP READING here. You better use the following at this time, but things will change in the future, I am certain.
A password manager is a software application that helps you generate, store, and manage strong passwords for all of your online accounts. Google has it built-in, but there are others available that you may prefer. I like BitWarden, but that is the only one I have any firsthand knowledge of, along with Google’s new system. They can also help you automatically fill out login forms, so you do not have to remember or type your passwords manually. They also help you create more difficult passwords of any length and design you like. I use 16 characters of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. That makes a password hard to crack, and I do not have to remember any of them since the app is on my phone, iPad, and computer. USE A PASSWORD MANAGER!
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. In addition to your password, you also need to enter a code from your phone or another device to log in. I imagine your bank uses it now, and that should tell you something important. If you do not use this on all of your accounts that it is available for, you may get in trouble one day. USE 2FA!
Stay secure on the internet, and along with other tips I have shared before, this advice will help maintain your online security.
