Google Assistant’s automatic password updater gets wider rollout

Image: Max Weinbach

A feature that helps you change your passwords quickly after a security incident is getting a wider roll out. That is according to a report from the police.

One of Weinbach's pictures shows a dialog box with a warning about a password being used in a hack, and the option to change it automatically.

At the I/O last year, the feature was announced. It only works on supported sites, but where possible the idea is to automate as much of the password-changing process as possible. When triggered, Assistant will take you to the right page for changing your password, and use the built-in password manager to generate and store new login details.

There is an option to manually check whether your passwords have been compromised. There is an option to check passwords in the browser's settings. If there is an option of automatically changing the password, the button will appear.

The security feature is built on a technology called Duplex on the Web, which is designed to quickly carry out tasks like buying movie tickets, checking in to flights, or ordering food. The more routine parts of the process, like scrolling, clicking through multiple pages, and filling out forms, are automated. The password automation appears to have been rolling out gradually since last November when some users were given access.

Password managers like LastPass and Dashlane have offered the ability to change compromised passwords in the past. As the feature rolls out, it could end up being used by more people than it currently is.

We contacted the company to confirm the scope of the project.