I’m a tech expert – single ‘Google tap’ can fix compromised passwords and avoid bank-draning attack
A SIMPLE Google Chrome trick can prevent one of the most dangerous cyber-attacks.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, a leading cyber-expert has urged users to check the feature – it only takes a single tap or click.
Google Chrome is one of the world’s most popular web browsers, and is brimming with security tricks.
One of them is called Google Password Checkup, and it’s designed to stop you falling victim to a very sinister “login re-use” attack that lets crooks into all of your accounts – potentially leaving your money exposed.
We spoke to Dr Klaus Schenk, senior vice president of security, and threat research at Verimatrix, who warned that re-using passwords for multiple accounts is particularly dangerous.
“It is crucial to avoid reusing passwords due to the growing number of leaked password databases available on the dark web and the potential risks they pose,” Dr Schenk explained.
“With the ever-increasing volume of leaked passwords, relying on the same password across multiple accounts becomes exceptionally risky.
“If you reuse passwords, a single leak or compromise can expose all of your accounts or provide attackers with valuable clues to attempt unauthorized access.”
He added: “Protecting your online security necessitates using unique, strong passwords for each account you create.”
It can be tempting to re-use passwords across apps and websites.
After all, it’s extremely difficult to remember unique and complex passwords for each of your online accounts.
That’s why security experts often recommend that gadget users take advantage of password managers, which can keep track of your logins for you.
Google Chrome has one built in, as does your iPhone or Mac via the Apple iCloud Keychain.
Another handy trick is Password Checkup on Google Chrome.
“Tools like the password checker in Google Chrome actively search these extensive databases for matches with your login credentials,” Dr Schenk advised.
To begin the Password Checkup, go to passwords.google.com.
Then go to Password Checkup > Check Passwords.
Google explained: “You can find out if passwords in your Google Account may have been exposed, are weak, or are used in multiple accounts.
“Then, you can change any unsafe passwords to keep your accounts more secure.
“Compromised passwords and username combinations are unsafe because they’ve been published online.
“We recommend that you change any compromised passwords as soon as you can.”