(Redirected from Firefox asks for authentication (password, voice, face or fingerprint) when accessing passwords)
Firefox
Firefox
Last updated:
39% of users voted this helpful
Last updated:
39% of users voted this helpful
Note: This article applies to Firefox desktop on macOS and Windows.
To use this feature, update Firefox to version 127 or later.
Enabling device sign-in for managing passwords in Firefox enhances the security of your saved logins. When you or anyone attempts to use the edit, copy, or reveal (
) button, you will be prompted to authenticate using voice, face camera, fingerprint login (when enabled) or operating system password. This prompt ensures that only authorized users can access or edit your logins.
- 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.
OS authentication might be requested if you disable and then re-enable the Primary Password while OS authentication is enabled.
Enable or disable password authentication
You can enable or disable OS authentication for passwords in Firefox settings, as follows:
- In the Menu bar at the top of the screen, click and then select or , depending on your macOS version.Click the menu button and select .
- Click on the left.
- Go down to the Passwords section, and check or uncheck the setting Require device sign in to fill and manage passwords.
- When prompted, enter your operating system password or authenticate using voice, face camera or fingerprint login (when enabled).
- After enabling this feature and entering your operating system password, the prompt will not be shown again until you reload the page or after five minutes pass. However, if you attempt to export passwords, the prompt will reappear regardless of the time elapsed.
To disable this feature, simply uncheck the box next to 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 button twice to continue. Note: This is a known issue and will be fixed in a future update.
This feature is only supported on Windows and macOS 10.12+.
Device sign-in authentication is not designed to protect against sophisticated attackers who have local access to your computer.
