New Feature Requires Biometric Authentication to Prevent Unauthorized Access

Google is set to address a long-standing security issue in its Chrome browser on Android by introducing a new feature that requires biometric authentication before autofilling passwords. This move comes as a welcome improvement, given the current lack of protection in Chrome, which allows passwords to be autofilled without any form of authentication.

The issue at hand has been a concern for Android users for quite some time. By default, Chrome uses the same autofill service as Google Password Manager, which means that passwords are autofilled without any additional security measures. This has left users vulnerable to unauthorized access, particularly in situations where a device is stolen or compromised.

In October of last year, Google announced that Chrome would block password autofills if a phone is stolen, building on Android’s Identity Check feature. However, this protection only activates when a device is in an untrusted location, such as when it is connected to a public Wi-Fi network. This means that users are still at risk when using public devices or sharing their devices with others.

The new feature, which is currently being rolled out, can be found in the Google Password Manager settings under the “Verify it’s you to autofill passwords” option. This toggle has been relocated from the Autofill with Google preferences and renamed, but it provides the same level of protection. According to a recent discovery by a Google user, the new description of this option reveals that Chrome will soon require fingerprint, face, or screen lock authentication to autofill passwords.

While it is unclear whether this single setting will apply to Chrome or if the browser will get its own toggle, this is a much-needed security improvement. The introduction of biometric authentication will provide an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to users’ passwords. This is particularly important for users who rely on password managers to securely store their login credentials.

Google’s decision to enhance password autofill security in Chrome is a step in the right direction. As the company continues to roll out this new feature, users can expect to see a more secure password autofill experience in Chrome. With this improvement, users can rest assured that their passwords will be protected, even when using public devices or sharing their devices with others.

The implications of this new feature are significant, particularly for users who rely on password managers to securely store their login credentials. By introducing biometric authentication, Google is providing an additional layer of security that will help to prevent unauthorized access to users’ passwords. This is a welcome improvement, and one that will likely be welcomed by users who value their online security.

As the rollout of this new feature continues, users can expect to see a more secure password autofill experience in Chrome. With this improvement, users can rest assured that their passwords will be protected, even when using public devices or sharing their devices with others.