At its virtual I/O 2021 event today, Google announced new ways it"s helping you protect your online accounts from password security breaches. The new capability allows you to change your password on Chrome with a single tap whenever the browser detects an anomalous behavior.
The new feature is part of Chrome"s native password manager, which last year gained the ability to check whether any of your saved passwords have been compromised in a security breach. From today, Chrome will alert you to a password security breach on supported websites. Google Assistant will then display a button that recommends you change your password. Tapping on that button will bring you to the website in question and Chrome will walk you through the whole process of changing your password. You can choose to go through the entire process from the start or jump to any point.
Google uses Duplex on the Web to power the new automated password change. First announced in 2019, the technology was designed to help you perform web-based tasks like making reservations at restaurants or ordering movie tickets. Duplex is now used to help you scroll the web and fill out online forms. Today"s announcement expands the tech"s capabilities by allowing you to set up a new, stronger password in case of a breach.
The new password security feature is rolling out to Chrome on Android in phases, available only if you sync your passwords. Initially, it will be available in the U.S. and on selected sites, with an expansion planned in the next few months.