How to Find the Passwords You’ve Stored in a Web Browser

If you haven’t invested in a password manager subscription, don’t beat yourself up.

You’re not alone. You’re probably one of many who struggle to find passwords stored on their desktops, laptops and phones or who rely on handwritten lists. This last option is far from secure.

The good news is web browsers on your computer or mobile device will save your passwords for future logins. Your browser will automatically complete the sign-in form on a website with your password when you log in next.

Storing passwords on a browser is convenient, with caveats

Loyalty is a must. Unless you use one device and browser exclusively or use the same browser on all your devices and opt to synchronize your passwords, you may find yourself searching for the sign-on you thought your favorite site or app already remembered.

Exclusivity is important. Having your web browser remember your passwords is secure only if you’re the sole one using that device. If it’s a shared machine, such as a desktop PC that several people in the home use, you’re risking unexpected charges on shopping websites or a family member peeking at your private social media accounts.

Change is good. Also, just because the password is stored doesn’t mean it should stay the same forever. Change your passwords regularly, but alter them immediately if you learn of any data breaches.

Sometimes you want to see a particular password saved in your web browser because you want to type it somewhere else. Here are the steps to take to see your stored passwords on the three most popular browsers — Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge and Apple Safari.

For Google Chrome users

On a computer:

1. Click the three vertical dots ⋮ at the upper right corner of your screen and go to ⚙️ Settings.

2. Select Autofill and Passwords from the menu in the left rail.

3. Click on Google Password Manager.

4. Scroll to 🗝️ Passwords and click the arrow ▸ after the password you want to view.

5. Enter your computer’s PIN or password, face or thumbprint, to proceed. Then click OK.

6. Click the eye icon 👁️ to view the password or the copy icon to copy the password to your clipboard.

On a smartphone or tablet:

1. Open Chrome, tap the three horizontal dots ⋯ or three vertical dots ⋮, depending on your device, then tap ⚙️ Settings.

2. Tap 🗝️ Password Manager and enter your device’s PIN.

3. Go to the list of Saved Passwords and select a site.

4. Tap the eye icon 👁️ to view the password.