Using a password manager

Strong, unique passwords can be the difference between staying safe online and being vulnerable to scammers. But keeping track of them all can be hard. That’s where password managers come in.

A password manager is an application (app) you use on your digital devices. It lets you store all your usernames, passwords, and other login details in one secure place. Some password managers can also help you:

• Create strong and unique passwords
• Save time and effort by automatically filling in your details on login pages

Password managers help you stay safe online without having to remember multiple passwords. You only need to remember one password (the master password) to unlock the app, and it looks after the rest for you. Keep reading to find out how to use them and how to make sure they’re trustworthy.

How to use a password manager

Step 1: Download a password manager

You can download password manager apps from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. You can also search for them in your internet browser and download them from the app’s website.

There are many different free and paid password managers available. There are a few things you can do to make sure the password manager you choose is trustworthy. Check that the app gets updated regularly and has strong security and privacy features, such as:

• Encryption: Prevents anyone from reading your stored information without your master password.
• Multi‑factor authentication: Requires anyone trying to log in to prove their identity in more than one way.
• Security alerts: Lets you know if a data breach has exposed any of your passwords.

You can also check whether these features are available, as they can make the app safer and easier to use:

• Syncing across devices: Keeps your passwords up to date and available on your phone, tablet, and computer.
• Auto‑fill: Automatically enters your passwords on login screens, reducing the risk of typing mistakes.

Step 2: Create a master password

The master password is what you’ll use to log in to your password manager. Here are some tips for creating a strong, unique password that’s easy to remember:

• Avoid using common words or phrases like 'password' or 'welcome'.
• Use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Consider using a passphrase - a string of random words that can be harder for scammers to guess.

Take a look at this article for more advice on cybersecurity and staying safe online.

Step 3: Save your first password

There are a couple of ways you can start saving passwords in your password manager. When you visit a website and enter your login details, the password manager will ask if you want to save this information - click 'Yes'.

Another way to save passwords is to go into the app and manually add your details for different accounts, including:

• Account name
• Current login details
• Website address

While doing this, you can use the password manager to generate a new, stronger password or passphrase. You can then go to the relevant account and update the password to the one you’ve just created.

Step 4: Use your password manager to fill in passwords

Once you’ve set up an account in your password manager, your login details will automatically fill in when you visit that website. This means you don’t have to remember your passwords anymore - except for your master password.

That said, it’s still important to stay aware of how secure you are online. Here are some extra tips to help you stay safe:

• Turn on multi‑factor authentication if your password manager supports it.
• Change your passwords regularly, including your master password. Make sure you immediately change any passwords that are exposed in a data breach.
• Think carefully about which accounts you store in your password manager. Some service providers may not refund money lost to scams if your password was stored in a password manager.

For more advice on protecting yourself online, visit the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

Google Chrome password manager

Google Password Manager is available for free through the Google Chrome web browser. To use it, you will need to:

• Have a Google email account
• Be signed in to your Google account on your browser or device

Google Password Manager can store your login details across any device that’s signed in to your Google account. Here’s how to save a password using this tool:

• When you enter a new password on a website, Google Chrome will ask if you would like to save it. Click 'Save' to accept.
• When creating a new account, Google Password Manager can also suggest a stronger, more secure password. To use this feature, click 'Yes' if the prompt appears, then select 'Preview' to see the password that will be saved.
• If you want to save a different password, type it into the Password field.

Get in touch with LiveUp

Building digital skills can play an important part in ageing well. If you need extra support, get in touch with our helpful team on 1800 951 971.

You might also like this article. It covers mobile apps that can make everyday life easier.

References

Australian Communication and Media Authority. (2021, May). The digital lives of older Australians. https://www.acma.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-05/The%20digital%20lives%20of%20older%20Australians.pdf

Australian Cyber Security Centre. (n.d.). Password managers. https://www.cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/securing-your-accounts/password-managers

Sheehan, A. (2025, July 22). What is a password manager and are they safe to use? ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-22/what-is-a-password-manager-and-are-they-safe-to-use/105542920

How to use this information

LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.

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