This feature originally began as the free Password Checkup Chrome extension that needed to be manually installed on Google Chrome, but it’s since been incorporated directly into the web browser and works as a built-in security setting that can be turned on or off. The password checker feature has also been integrated into the Android operating system, so it can be used on Android tablets and smartphones.
How Does the Google Password Checker Work?
The Google Password Checker mostly works in the background while you surf the internet. When you visit a website that you’ve previously logged into, the tool immediately compares your username and password combination to several databases of confirmed leaked user account info and alerts you of any breach. It then prompts you to change your password to something different so that nefarious parties who have these databases of stolen passwords won’t be able to access your account. The Google Password Checker can also scan all of your accounts’ login information at once via the passwords.google.com website. All you need to do is click Check passwords.
How Can I Turn off the Google Password Checker?
The Google Password Checker can be disabled at any time in the Chrome browser by clicking the ellipsis in the top-right corner and clicking Settings > More and turning off the switch next to Warn you if passwords are exposed in a data breach.
What Is the Google Password Checkup Extension?
The Chrome Password Checkup extension was the original build of Google’s Password Checkup tool. While the extension is still live and able to be installed on the browser, it’s no longer needed as the functionality is now built directly into Google Chrome.
Do I Need a Password Security Checker?
Using a password security checker is highly recommended as such tools can be a quick and convenient way to check if your personal information has been compromised in a data breach or hack. They require little technical know-how to use and most are completely free.
Where Can I Download the Google Password Manager App?
There is no Google Password Manager app as passwords are saved and checked directly within the Google Chrome web browser on computers and the built-in operating system on Android smartphones and tablets. The passwords.google.com website can also be used to check passwords via any web browser on any device.
Do I Need a New Passwords.Google.com Account?
The passwords.google.com website which hosts the Google Password Checkup feature doesn’t require the creation of a new account as your existing Google account works just fine. The same goes for the Google Chrome Password Checkup setting within the Google Chrome web browser which also uses your Google account. However, if at any time in the future you want to make a new Google account, this password checkup feature works with it as well so you don’t have to be worried about being locked into the same account forever.
