Google introduces password sharing for family members
Google's New Family Password Sharing: Safe?
Google has rolled out a new feature in its Password Manager that allows users to share passwords securely within a family group. This feature, introduced as part of the Google Play Services update v24.20, is limited to users who are part of a designated family group. Although primarily available on mobile, it has not yet been enabled on the desktop version of Chrome. The functionality aims to facilitate situations like shared accounts for daycare or school assignments among family members.
What is the main function of the newly introduced feature in Google's Password Manager?
The main function of the newly introduced feature in Google's Password Manager is to allow password sharing among family members1. This feature enables users to securely share their passwords with members of their family group in Google Password Manager3. When a password is shared, family members receive a copy of it in their own Google Password Manager, making it readily available for use3. This feature can be particularly useful in situations where family members need to access shared accounts or when parents need access to their child's accounts, such as for managing daycare or school assignments. However, it's important to note that password sharing is strictly limited to members of a family group.
How can users share passwords with family members using Google's Password Manager?
Google's Password Manager has introduced a feature that allows users to securely share their passwords with family members. To use this feature, users must be part of a designated family group within Google. Once the family group is established, users can share passwords directly through the Password Manager. The process involves selecting a "share" button that becomes visible within the Password Manager for those who have set up their family group5. When a password is shared, each family member in the group receives a copy of the password in their own Google Password Manager, making it ready for use immediately2. This feature was rolled out as part of the Google Play Services update in May 2024 and is specifically designed to facilitate secure sharing of passwords among family members for purposes such as coordinating shared accounts or accessing important information124.