Why Built-in Browser Password Managers May Be Riskier Than You Think

Why Built-in Browser Password Managers May Be Riskier Than You Think

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Written By Jamie Spencer

People are drawn to their browser’s password manager because it is easy to use. You get prompts whenever you need to create a new password, and they are filled in automatically. However, putting something as crucial for your digital life as password management into your browser’s hands comes with worrisome security risks.

What dangers do browser-based password managers (BBPMs) pose? What should you be using instead? Here’s all you need to know. 

The Price of Convenience

While easy to use, diverse features, complex underlying architecture, and intricate functionality make browsers some of the most advanced software we use today. BBPMs are just one of their many features, meaning they lack the sophistication and focus of dedicated password managers.

Their maintenance also takes a backseat to stability and overall security as well as improving performance. Potential issues and vulnerabilities are more challenging to detect and address. Let’s take a look at some specifics. 

Improper encryption

Not being accessible without proper authorization is a fundamental prerequisite for password security. Browsers aren’t negligent to the point of storing your passwords in plain text anymore. Still, the encryption they use may not be the best available, making it easier to bypass than industry standards like AES-256 and XChaCha20. 

Lack of zero-knowledge policies 

Ideally, not even the manager’s developer should know or have access to your passwords. That’s known as a zero-knowledge policy, which BBPMs don’t follow. Encryption and decryption keys are tied to your user account instead, meaning that the browser’s provider can decrypt your passwords and divulge them if compelled.

Less secure access 

Logging into a browser account is all you need to use a BBPM. Convenient but dangerous since a single breach could compromise not only all your stolen passwords but email address, online documents, cloud storage, and more. Dedicated managers focus only on protecting your credentials, which minimizes your attack surface. 

Autofill vulnerabilities 

Autofill is a major BBPM feature and a potential security risk if mishandled. For example, it might automatically populate the form fields on a malicious website you accessed through a phishing email link. Having everything filled in makes you more likely to proceed with the “login” without verifying the site’s authenticity, endangering your accounts, personal information, and finances.

Storing sensitive information inside autofill can lead to unintentional exposure. When you share a work computer or lend your device to a friend, for example. Autofill can also be inaccurate, populating fields with information from one account when you need another. 

Browser exclusivity 

One of BBPM’s most glaring weaknesses is its tie to a specific browser. You can only store credentials for websites and services accessible through a browser. In addition, you can’t sync with other devices unless you’re using the same browser and have a main account on them. That means business software, gaming launchers, and other standalone tools aren’t protected.

Moreover, the browser might not offer the same experience and functionality on different systems. For example, it might be harder or impossible to use the BBPM on iOS than on PC. 

Lack of secure sharing options 

Working efficiently sometimes means granting access to colleagues, third-party vendors, etc. BBPMs don’t offer any secure and temporary means of doing this. 

The Better Alternative 

Standalone password managers are a safer, more robust, and more feature-rich alternative to BBPMs. Better yet, you can install them as browser extensions and enjoy the same streamlined account access while reaping additional benefits.

Reputable password manager providers receive independent audits that ensure business transparency and security of the data you entrust them with. Generating strong and unique passwords is as easy as typing them in a browser, but individuals and IT teams can set prerequisites like length and required characters for granular control.

Password managers can store other sensitive information and work for any program or service. They offer additional indispensable features like two-factor authentication and data breach alerts. Some also keep records of malicious websites and will alert you if you try to access them. 

Conclusion 

Using the best password manager instead of relying on your memory or reusing passwords while endangering their accounts is already responsible. However, now that you know what risks BBPMs pose and why standalone alternatives are superior, you should go with a trusted and reputable provider of the latter for peace of mind and robust password security.

Jamie Spencer

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