Microsoft Edge has a feature called Password Monitor. It alerts you if your saved passwords show up in known data breaches, and you can turn it on or off on Windows 11.
This tool scans your stored passwords against a database of compromised login details. It proactively warns you about potential risks. For example, if one of your passwords is found on a list from a website hack, Password Monitor will flag it.
You can easily manage this feature within Edge’s settings to enhance your online security. Keeping it enabled provides a crucial layer of protection against credential stuffing attacks (a type of cyberattack where attackers use stolen login information from one breach to try accessing other accounts).
To manage Password Monitor in Microsoft Edge, go to Settings > Passwords and autofill > Microsoft Password Manager. Under More settings, toggle “Scan passwords for leaks” on or off to enable or disable the feature. This checks your saved passwords against known data breaches.
Why Use Password Monitor?
Password Monitor checks if any of the passwords you’ve saved in Edge have appeared in known data breaches (which are lists of compromised login information from hacked websites). This helps you know if you need to change a password to keep your account safe.
How to Turn On Password Monitor
First, make sure you’re signed into Microsoft Edge with your Microsoft account, or your work or school account. Your security settings are tied to your profile, so this is important.
Open Microsoft Edge Settings
Start Microsoft Edge on your computer. Look for the three dots (…) in the top right corner of the browser window. Click them. A menu will pop up. Click on Settings.Go to Password Settings
In the Settings menu, look for Passwords and autofill on the left side. Click it.Locate Password Manager Settings
Under the Passwords and autofill section, click on Microsoft Password Manager.Turn On the Security Check
In the Password Manager settings, find the section called More settings. Click on it.Turning on the edge password monitor in Microsoft Edge is simple and keeps your logins safer by checking if they’ve been found in data breaches.
That’s it! Password Monitor is now on. Edge will now check your saved passwords in the background to see if they are in danger.
How to Turn Off Password Monitor
If you want to turn off Password Monitor, simply follow the same steps as above:
- Open Microsoft Edge and go to Settings.
- Click on Passwords and autofill.
- Click on Microsoft Password Manager.
- Click on More settings.
- Find Scan passwords for leaks and switch it to Off.
What Happens When You Turn It Off?
When Password Monitor is off, Edge will no longer check your saved passwords against lists of known data breaches. You won’t get warnings if your passwords are found in a breach.
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Summary
The edge password monitor feature in Microsoft Edge helps protect your online accounts by checking if your saved passwords have been exposed in data breaches.
Is Edge password monitor safe?
Yes, Microsoft Edge's Password Monitor is safe. It securely checks your saved passwords against a database of known data breaches without exposing your actual passwords to Microsoft or third parties. This feature enhances your online security by alerting you to compromised credentials.
How to see the password stored in Edge?
To see passwords stored in Microsoft Edge, navigate to Settings, then 'Profiles', and select 'Passwords'. You will see a list of all saved passwords. Click the 'eye' icon next to any entry to reveal the password, which may require your Windows login credentials for verification.
How do I see all my saved passwords?
You can view all your saved passwords in Microsoft Edge by going to Settings > Profiles > Passwords. This section lists every credential saved by the browser. For security, you'll need to enter your Windows password or PIN to reveal any specific saved password.
What is a password monitor?
A password monitor is a security feature, like Microsoft Edge's Password Monitor, that checks if your saved passwords have appeared in known data breaches. It alerts you if your credentials might be compromised, prompting you to change them and protect your online accounts from unauthorized access.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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