· machCon · IT-Sicherheit · 3 min read
Saving passwords in your browser? Not a good idea
One click, and the browser saves the password. Convenient but dangerous. Password-stealing malware, inadequate encryption, and access by tech companies turn browser password managers into security traps.
Saving passwords in your browser has several advantages. As humans, we tend to choose the easier option. Of course, it’s tempting to have the browser remember your password with just one click. The next time you visit the website, everything happens automatically.
But behind this convenience lie significant security vulnerabilities. Many people aren’t aware that the password storage features in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge aren’t nearly as secure as one might assume.
Why is saving passwords in your browser so risky?
Browsers store your login credentials directly on the device, often with insufficient protection. While some form of encryption is usually used, it is frequently tied to your operating system login. For attackers with the right expertise, this poses no obstacle.
The situation becomes even more problematic with physical access: Anyone who gets their hands on your device can quickly gain access to all stored login credentials.
Stealer malware is another, often underestimated risk. This specialized malware is designed to specifically extract password storage from common browsers. A single careless click on a rigged link or opening an infected attachment can be enough. In no time at all, all your login credentials end up in the wrong hands.
On top of that: Browser manufacturers themselves have access to extensive information about your usage behavior. Large tech companies are attractive targets for cybercriminals. A successful attack grants access to millions of user accounts.
Different browsers, similar problems
Chrome relies on automatic linking to your Google account. All passwords are accessible without any additional hurdles. There is no separate master password to protect them. Anyone who briefly gains access to your device can log in to all your accounts.
Firefox offers the option of a master password. However, this feature is disabled by default. Without enabling it, all passwords are directly visible. Even with a master password, using it is cumbersome and is often neglected.
Edge behaves similarly to Chrome and uses the connection to your Microsoft account. When deleting passwords, no security prompt is displayed. Accidental deletion can happen quickly.
All three browsers lack a level of security that specialized solutions can easily provide.
The better solution: A dedicated password manager
Anyone who takes their digital security seriously should use specialized password managers. For businesses with many different login credentials, using a password manager is especially essential.
The key difference lies in encryption: Professional password managers use the AES-256 standard, which is considered unbreakable. Your passwords are stored in an encrypted database to which only you have the key (your master password).
The zero-knowledge policy is particularly important for cloud-based providers: not even the password manager provider can decrypt your data. The key is generated exclusively locally on your device.
Additional Benefits:
- Password generation: Strong, unique passwords automatically generated for each account
- Audit feature: Identifies weak, reused, or compromised passwords
- Two-factor-authentication: An additional layer of security for accessing the Manager itself
Recommended password managers
We recommend the following for businesses:
| Provider | Distinctive features |
|---|---|
| Bitwarden | Open Source, Zero-Knowledge, EU-Hosting possible |
| 1Password | Business-Features, advanced team management |
| Keeper | Advanced Compliance-Features, EU data centers |
| KeePassXC | Stored locally, no cloud provider required |
Conclusion
The convenience of browser password managers is deceptive. Password-stealing malware, a lack of encryption, and tech companies’ insatiable appetite for data turn them into security risks, especially in businesses.
A dedicated password manager costs little, offers significant protection, and is one of the simplest IT security measures with the highest return on security.
Do you have questions about IT security measures in your company? Talk to our experts.
