Google is working on a new security feature for Chrome. In the Canary version of the web browser, a user has discovered a new feature called “Automatic password change”.
As Google explains in Chrome’s settings, this new feature is based on artificial intelligence. The option is indeed mentioned in the “AI Innovations” section, which groups together AI-related functions.
Changing a compromised password
By using AI, Google is able to automatically change a hacked password. Google explains that if “one of your passwords has been compromised in a data breach, Chrome can offer to change your password for you when you sign in”. Once the new password has been generated, Chrome offers to automatically add it to Google’s password manager. The browser specifies that the new password is "encrypted and not visible to anyone".
Unsurprisingly, the feature relies on Chrome's ability to identify passwords that have been exposed in a personal data leak. The browser continuously analyzes lists of passwords and identifiers that have been exposed in data leaks. The data, publicly accessible, is then compared to your identifiers stored on Chrome. If Google finds a match, Chrome displays a security alert and recommends changing the password without delay.
An experimental feature
Finally, Chrome explains that the feature is still experimental. Depending on user feedback, the Mountain View giant could choose to postpone, cancel or completely review the project. Regardless, Chrome Canary users can test this feature by enabling the Enhanced Password Change Service, marking all of their credentials as compromised, and then restarting Chrome.
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