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Is Chrome’s Password Leak Alert Now More Flexible for Security-Conscious Users?
Google Chrome’s password leak detection is a crucial security feature that alerts users if their saved passwords have been compromised in a data breach. Traditionally, this feature was tied to Chrome’s Safe Browsing mode, requiring users to keep Safe Browsing enabled to access password leak alerts. This limitation frustrated users who preferred not to use Safe Browsing but still wanted strong password security.
Recent Chrome updates have introduced a solution: a hidden flag that allows users to move the password leak detection toggle to the Advanced security settings section, making it independent from Safe Browsing. This change increases flexibility and control over browser security settings.
Benefits of the Standalone Password Leak Detection Toggle
- Activate password leak alerts without enabling Safe Browsing.
- Greater privacy control while maintaining strong password security.
- Available across platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, and Lacros.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable the Standalone Password Leak Detection Toggle
- Open Google Chrome and enter chrome://flags/ in the address bar.
- In the “Search flags” box, type leak.
- Find the option labeled Password leak toggle move.
- Select Enabled from the drop-down menu for this option.
- Click the Relaunch now button to restart Chrome.
- After restarting, go to chrome://settings/security.
- You’ll now find the “Warn you if a password was compromised in a data breach” toggle under the Advanced section. Enable or disable it as desired, independent of Safe Browsing.
To revert this change
Set the same flag to Disabled and restart Chrome. The password leak toggle will return to its original location under Standard Protection.
Key Points
- Chrome encrypts usernames and passwords during leak checks, ensuring user credentials remain private and unreadable by Google or others.
- If Chrome detects a compromised password, promptly change it to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.
- This update empowers users to tailor browser security settings for both privacy and protection.
This adjustment offers a positive improvement for users seeking better control over their browser’s security features without compromising privacy