Google Chrome is the leading browser for desktop and mobile, with over half of online users using it as their web browser of choice. With these numbers, users have come to trust Chrome and the many features it offers. However, there is one thing any user should be wary of when using any sort of web browser: saving passwords.

Sometimes, it can be a hassle remembering passwords for every login page of every website and application. Saving passwords on your browser means that you can access all sorts of sites without the hassle of logging in manually every time. But convenience online often means trading in your own web security.

Saving your passwords in your web browser means that any intruder who has unrestricted access to your computer can find lists of all your passwords in a matter of seconds. It’s as easy as going to chrome://settings/passwords. There, you can find a complete list of every saved password ever created on that account. Alternatively, any hacker can gain access to a plethora of applications you use with just a few clicks, leaving you vulnerable to all sorts of attacks.

Check out three different ways you can keep your passwords safe.

 

How To Prevent Password Vulnerabilities

 

Store Passwords Somewhere Remote

 

The first method to keep your passwords safe is by far the simplest; don’t save passwords on your browser. If you have trouble remembering your passwords, store them somewhere physical and private where no one else has access to them. For example, writing them down in a handbook or agenda that you keep close.

If you find that you’re running around with too many passwords jumbling around in your head, it may be time to prioritize the applications you use. For gaming, which is less important than business, you may want to use the same password so you won’t forget. For business, where passwords should be more complex, add them to a secure place like an online password keeper.

 

Two-Factor Authentication

 

Adding two-factor authentication to Google Chrome is another way to prevent password vulnerabilities. With this two-step approach, you will not only be asked for a password but for another piece of information as well, such as a code sent to your phone or email. Once you’ve signed in once, you can take two-factor authentication off the one computer you are using. For any other computer, however, you will need to go through the two-factor authentication process. This ensures that no one else will be able to access your passwords.

Another handy feature is activating two-factor authentication on certain websites rather than all of them so that you know important websites on your own computer will never be accessed by anyone other than you. This way, you’re always in control of your privacy. Remember, two-factor authentication is a solid way to protect yourself, but it can be a hassle if you use it for anything and everything. Balancing security and accessibility is key.

 

Password Protected Apps

 

If you’d rather have a randomly generated password, or you feel that other methods are too much of a hassle, try using a password manager to track of all of your passwords. Password managers often create complex passwords that can’t be cracked. This way, your passwords are always stored in a safe place and are close to impossible to crack. Some of the password managers we recommend are:

  • LastPass. Includes two-factor authentication
  • Dashlane. For password managers and digital wallets
  • 1Password. Free 30-day trial and then $2.99/month

 

While every password manager application or plugin will have niche features, all of them get the job done. Small businesses can opt for free options, while larger companies or corporations should look into paid services that offer tighter security. However, what it really comes down to is preference, so feel free to try different password managers before settling on one.

 

Conclusion

 

Whether you’re using Google Chrome, or another browser, be sure to keep your password safe at all times. From storing them in a safe place physically or digitally to installing a password manager to adding two-factor authentication, your password security is in your hands.

What method do you use to keep your passwords safe? Let us know in the comments below.