The Risks of Storing Passwords in Browsers
Browsers often offer to save your passwords for ease of access, but this feature can leave your sensitive information vulnerable. Here are some key reasons to avoid this practice:
1. Password Stealing
If an attacker gains access to your computer through a phishing or spear phishing campaign, they can easily retrieve saved passwords from your browsers. Many modern browsers store passwords in unencrypted files or local storage, making them easy for theft if your system is compromised. Here are some examples of how browser passwords can be easily recovered using scripts from the internet that are publicly available.Â

(Source: Fractional CISO)

(Source: Fractional CISO)

(Source: Fractional CISO)
2. Browser Vulnerabilities
Browsers might look simple, but they are actually complex pieces of software with their own security flaws that are constantly targeted. These vulnerabilities can be exploited to access saved passwords. Even if your browser is up-to-date, new exploits can emerge, putting your saved credentials at risk.
3. Browser Syncing
If you are using a popular browser where you are logged in on your mobile device along with your desktop computer, your passwords saved in the browser will sync between devices and can be dangerous if someone is able to get a hold of your computer or mobile device.
4. Limited Security Features
Browser-based password managers often lack advanced security features and might not offer strong encryption or secure sharing options. Browsers are not good for storing passwords compared to a dedicated password manager.
Why Password Managers Are a Better Option
Password managers provide a far superior way for managing your passwords. They are designed with security in mind and offer several advantages: advanced encryption, secure password generation, cross-platform access, and great features.Â
How password managers work is they are either local or cloud-based installations and allow for a complex primary password to access the vault – often with multi-factor authentication. Some may even have features like notifying you of weak passwords, storing secure notes, or notifying you of data breaches.
For a comprehensive list of password managers, you can refer to this Wikipedia page where you can refer to and look at one that suits your needs.Â
Final Tips
Although password managers are a better alternative to browser stored credentials, it is advisable to evaluate what you are storing in a password manager. If you need to write down your primary password, ensure it is properly stored (such as in a locked safe).
- Avoid using the same password across all accounts
- Avoid storing your most important passwords such as email or banking but instead memorize them.
- Use a strong primary password or passphrase for your password manager
- Have a backup plan to recover your passwords if you lose access to your password manager.
- Choose a password manager that uses multi-factor authentication