Passwords disappear for millions of Windows users thanks to Google

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What you need to know

  • A bug in Chrome version 127 caused passwords to vanish for around 15 million Windows users. The issue lasted for nearly 18 hours before being fixed.
  • Users had to use a command line flag as a temporary fix, but the final solution required just a browser restart (yes, turn it off and on again!).
  • This incident highlights the risks of relying solely on browser-based password managers.

As a seasoned tech user with years of experience under my belt, I’ve seen my fair share of software glitches and bugs that have caused inconvenience and frustration. But the recent incident involving Google Chrome’s password manager leaving around 15 million Windows users locked out of their accounts for nearly 18 hours was particularly disconcerting.

As a seasoned tech user who has weathered numerous storms in the digital world, I can’t help but feel a sense of deja vu as I read about the recent tech mishaps that have left businesses reeling and millions of individuals grappling with unexpected inconveniences. It all started with the CrowdStrike bug that brought many to a standstill, leaving some still recovering from postponed flights and surgeries. I remember the frustration and helplessness I felt during similar instances in the past.

Chrome’s Password Manager — not a failsafe

For Windows users, there was a problem with Google Password Manager in Chrome, impacting a significant number of users given Chrome’s large user base of over 3 million. I am among them and heavily rely on this feature to manage my complex passwords for various daily use websites. The issue affected the M127 version of Chrome, preventing access to previously saved passwords and rendering new ones invisible. This problem reportedly impacted approximately 15 million users according to Forbes’ prediction.

Rethinking my dependency on Google Chrome password manager

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It’s fortunate that I wasn’t impacted by the recent error, but it has made me ponder my reliance on Google Password Manager for all my online accounts. From work emails to government websites used for childcare subsidies, every password depends on my trust in this tool’s unwavering functionality. I’ve experimented with apps like Keepass before, but Bitwarden seems to be the popular free encrypted password database currently, and Nordpass’ paid options receive high praise. Regrettably, setting a simple password like “P@$$word” for all accounts isn’t an option for me. Considering my dependency on a password manager, it’s essential not to keep everything in just one – especially during this era of technical hiccups. Unfortunately, I can’t suggest that you use the same password for everything; instead, consult TechRadar’s comprehensive guide on top-rated password managers and make an informed decision on selecting a backup.

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2024-07-29 00:18