On macOS and Windows, you may be prompted to enter your operating system password (or authenticate using your fingerprint, face or voice login if enabled) when accessing your stored passwords in the Firefox Password Manager about:logins page. This is an anti-snooping feature designed to protect your logins from unauthorized access.

1. When you or anyone attempts to use the Edit, Copy or the Reveal button (represented by the “eye” icon), they will be prompted to enter your operating system password or authenticate using voice, face camera or fingerprint login (when enabled) before they can access or edit your logins.
2. If you've successfully entered your operating system password, the prompt will not be shown until you reload the page or after five minutes pass.

• Example Windows prompt: This is an example of the prompt that is displayed on Windows. The dialog has options to authenticate using a password or other authentication methods such as PIN. The “More choices” link may need to be clicked on to reveal alternate authentication methods. The username used for authentication must match the currently signed in operating system user.

• Example macOS prompt: This is an example of the prompt that is displayed on macOS. Authentication is available using Touch ID or a password.

Enable or disable OS authentication

You can enable or disable OS authentication for passwords in Firefox settings, as follows:

1. In the Menu bar at the top of the screen, click Firefox and then select Preferences or Settings, depending on your macOS version.Click the menu button and select Settings.
2. Click Privacy & Security on the left.
3. Go down to the Passwords section, and select or deselect the option Require device sign in to fill and manage passwords.

   

What if I don't have an OS password?

• Windows: If you aren't using a Windows password, you will not be prompted to enter it.
• macOS: If you don't have a password, click the OK twice to continue. Note: This is a known issue and will be fixed in a future update.