Turning off autofill for passwords is a straightforward process that enhances your privacy and security. Here's how to disable it in Chrome:
Steps to Disable Autofill Passwords in Chrome:
- Open Chrome: Launch the Google Chrome browser.
- Access the Chrome Menu: Click the three vertical dots located in the top-right corner of the browser window. This opens the Chrome menu.
- Navigate to Settings: In the Chrome menu, select "Settings". This will open the Chrome settings page in a new tab.
- Go to Autofill and Passwords: On the left-hand side of the Settings page, click on "Autofill" and then choose "Passwords". Alternatively, type "passwords" into the search bar at the top of the Settings page and click on the "Passwords" result.
- Disable "Offer to save passwords": Find the option labeled "Offer to save passwords" and toggle the switch to the "Off" position. When the switch is grayed out, the feature is disabled.
What happens when you turn off "Offer to save passwords"?
- Chrome will no longer prompt you to save new passwords when you enter them on websites.
- Existing saved passwords will still be stored in Chrome but won't be automatically filled in on websites if you also disable "Auto Sign-in."
Optional: Disable Auto Sign-in
For even more control, you can also disable "Auto Sign-in". This prevents Chrome from automatically filling in saved passwords when you visit a website. Here's how:
- On the same "Passwords" settings page (Autofill > Passwords), locate the "Auto Sign-in" option.
- Toggle the switch to the "Off" position.
Why Turn Off Autofill Passwords?
While convenient, autofill can pose security risks:
- Malware: Some malware can exploit autofill features to steal your credentials.
- Shared Devices: If you use a shared computer, others could potentially access your saved passwords.
By disabling autofill, you reduce these risks, but remember to use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager for secure storage and management.
