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Microsoft Edge Stores Saved Passwords in Plaintext Memory, Researchers Say

Independent tests found saved credentials sitting in Edge’s memory as readable text.

Overview

  • A Norwegian researcher showed that Edge loads every saved password into RAM as readable text.
  • Reporters reproduced the finding by dumping Edge’s process memory and locating a test password that had not been used in that session.
  • The researcher says Microsoft told him the behavior was an intentional design choice, according to Itavisen.no.
  • Edge prompts for Windows Hello to view the password list, but that check does not stop someone who can create a memory dump.
  • Security outlets urge users to delete any saved Edge passwords and move to a separate password manager, and the researcher plans a GitHub tool to help people check their systems.