Using Master Password on Firefox for Android

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  • Revision id: 17845
  • Created:
  • Creator: Michael Verdi
  • Comment: New section heading, added "How does the master password work" section, added step to select pref screen, rewording
  • Reviewed: Yes
  • Reviewed:
  • Reviewed by: mluna
  • Is approved? Yes
  • Is current revision? No
  • Ready for localization: Yes
  • Readied for localization:
  • Readied for localization by: mluna
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Firefox can save usernames and passwords that you use to access online services, such as banking and email. In order to prevent someone else from accessing your accounts if they have your device, you can set a master password. This article explains how to use a master password.

Note: This applies to the latest Firefox Beta version which can be downloaded from mozilla.org/m/firefox/channel/.

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How does the master password work?

Once you've set up a master password, you'll be asked you to enter it each time you start Firefox. This will "unlock" the usernames and passwords that you've saved and Firefox will automatically fill them in for you as you browse from website to website. When you are done using the web, you can quit Firefox to "lock up" your usernames and passwords.

Note: The Android system on your device may quit Firefox automatically to free up resources when you are using another app. If that happens, you'll be asked to enter your master password again when you switch back to Firefox.

How do I set up a master password?

By default, Firefox doesn't use a master password to protect your saved usernames and passwords. To set one up:

  1. Swipe left and tap the Gear button.
  2. If you're not already on the Preferences screen, tap the Preferences tab at the top of the window.
  3. Scroll down to the Privacy & Security preferences and tap the Use Master Password check box.

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  4. Type a password into the entry fields.
    Tip: Remember to make your password something that is easy for you to remember, but difficult for others to guess. See Create secure passwords to keep your identity safe to learn how.
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  5. To set the master password, tap OK.

How do I remove a master password?

If you want to stop using a master password, you can easily remove it:

  1. Swipe left and tap the Gear button.
  2. If you're not already on the Preferences screen, tap the Preferences tab at the top of the window.
  3. Scroll down to the Privacy & Security preferences and tap the Master Password check box.
  4. Type your master password into the entry field.

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  5. Click OK to remove the Master Password.

What can I do if I forget my master password?

If you've forgotten your master password, you'll have to reset it:

Warning: Resetting your master password will remove all of your saved usernames and passwords.
  1. Tap the location bar at the top of the page, enter the following address: chrome://pippki/content/resetpassword.xul and then tap Enter.
  2. The "Reset Master Password" page will appear. Tap the Reset button, to reset your master password.