5 Precautions When Using a Browser Password Manager

Paying for a third-party password manager can be redundant when you have one built into your browser. However, browser-based password managers are not as secure as third-party options.

But if you follow these password security tips, your browser-based password manager will be just as secure as a paid alternative.

Table of Contents

• 1. Check browser extensions before installing
• 2. Do not share devices 
• 3. Remember to lock your device
• 4. Always keep your browser updated 
• 5. Avoid storing important passwords

1. Check browser extensions before installing

You'll find fake or malicious browser extensions in most extension stores, whether you're using Chrome, a Chromium-based browser like Edge, or even Firefox. These extensions impersonate other popular services, including password managers, in an attempt to steal your data.

If you download a malicious extension, it can access all of your browsing data, including but not limited to passwords, cookies, browsing history, etc. So before you start storing all your passwords in your browser, check your extensions and make sure they are all safe. Check each browser extension before downloading it, and you should follow these steps if you suspect you have downloaded a malicious browser extension.

2. Do not share devices

Shared devices, and by extension web browsers, are terrible for privacy. Anyone with access to your device can open the browser and see any stored passwords. Additionally, since most services remember your login information and automatically log you in, your account is not protected if someone decides to use it.

Shared devices also add to the risk factor. Someone you share your device with may install an extension or other program that isn’t as safe as they think. In these cases, these potentially malicious programs often go unnoticed and are only discovered when it’s too late.

3. Remember to lock your device

Browser-based password managers don’t offer much protection against physical access. If your PC supports Windows Hello or you’ve set up a device password, your browser will ask for your login information before displaying your password, but that’s it. So if you leave your device in a public place like the office, library, or school, lock it first.

Locking your device hides your browser and, by extension, your password manager from holding your passwords while you're away. This simple thing can often make the difference between being protected and being compromised, especially if you're using a computer in a public place.

4. Always keep your browser updated

This may seem obvious, but keeping your browser up to date ensures you're protected from any bugs or vulnerabilities that could be discovered and become a security risk. That's why Google releases security updates for Chrome every week.

There have been cases where serious vulnerabilities in major browsers have been exploited to steal user data. You never know when a similar vulnerability might be discovered and exploited. Keeping your browser up to date is the easiest way to ensure you are protected from vulnerabilities that have already been discovered and patched.

However, there are other reasons why you should update your browser as well. Updates often add new features and functionality that can significantly improve the user experience.

5. Avoid storing important passwords

No matter how convenient they are, browser password managers are not as secure as dedicated ones. This is one of the main reasons why you should avoid using browser password managers . So when storing passwords for quick access in your browser, avoid using important passwords like bank and company passwords.

Your bank account or work credentials are more important to cybercriminals than your Instagram or Facebook account. However, important services like your Google account, bank details, or work credentials can still be stored in your browser.

The best way to use a browser password manager is to store passwords for non-essential services and accounts where you want to use secure passwords but don't necessarily need to remember or write them down every time you log in. For more important services, you should use a dedicated password manager.

Browser password managers aren't the most secure way to store your passwords, but with a few precautions, they can be a useful tool that saves you from having to remember dozens of passwords. There are some differences between browser password managers, though, so be sure to double-check that as well.