Google Chrome to automatically replace weak passwords in major security upgrade
Presently, Chrome alerts users to vulnerable passwords, but changing them has remained a manual – and often overlooked – task. The new feature is set to change that.
In a move that could significantly enhance online security for users worldwide, including millions of Kenyans, Google has announced a powerful upgrade to Chrome’s password manager.
Unveiled at the recent Google I/O conference, the browser will soon be able to automatically detect and replace weak or compromised passwords, making it easier than ever to stay safe online.
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Presently, Chrome alerts users to vulnerable passwords, but changing them has remained a manual – and often overlooked – task. The new feature is set to change that.
Once Chrome identifies a password that is either too weak or has appeared in a data breach, it will now offer to update it automatically, generating a strong, secure alternative and implementing the change on supported websites.
According to The Verge, Parisa Tabriz, Google’s Vice President and Head of Chrome, said the goal is to make good security practices effortless.
“If the password change process is too complicated, users will simply ignore it,” she said. “Automatic change is a win for both security and user experience.”
User control will remain essential, and Google has confirmed that Chrome will always request permission before making any changes, ensuring that users stay informed and in control.
What this means for Kenyan users
With Kenya’s digital economy expanding rapidly – and services like mobile banking, e-learning, and e-commerce becoming part of everyday life – this update comes at a critical moment.
A recent survey by the Communications Authority of Kenya revealed that nearly 70% of internet users reuse passwords across multiple platforms, creating vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can easily exploit.
“This feature could drastically reduce the number of successful cyberattacks we see,” said Njeri Wachira, a Nairobi-based cybersecurity researcher.
“If Chrome is doing the heavy lifting, more people will finally adopt safer online habits.”
Google has announced the change early to give developers time to update their websites to support the automatic password replacement process.
The rollout of this feature is expected by late 2025.
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