Password managers are lifesavers for security, but they’re not without frustrations. Over the years, I’ve faced many hiccups while using different password managers. From spooky logouts to autofill failures, these irritations can make you question whether the security benefits are worth the hassle.

7

Password Manager Keeps Logging Out

Few things are more frustrating than trying to log into an account only to find your password manager has mysteriously logged itself out. I’ve experienced this many times, particularly when I’m in a rush and desperately need access to a complex password. Most often, overly strict session timeout settings are the reason, timing you out after mere minutes of inactivity.

Browser extensions can also cause unexpected logouts. I’ve noticed that when I have multiple security tools running simultaneously, they sometimes conflict with each other, causing my password manager to disconnect. Similarly, after automatic updates, the customized preferences sometimes get reset to default settings, including those controlling logout timers.

The simplest fix is adjusting the auto-logout or auto-lock duration in your password manager’s security settings. If you’re using your browser’s built-in password manager, check if it conflicts with any third-party tool for persistent issues. Clearing the browser cache and cookies often resolves logout problems, as can ensuring your password manager is fully updated with the latest version.

6

Autofill Isn’t Working Properly

Sometimes, the password manager refuses to fill in login details. Usually, the issue is as simple as forgotten permissions—many browsers require explicit authorization before letting password managers access form fields. These permissions occasionally reset without warning after browser updates.

Non-standard login forms are another common reason. Many websites implement custom security features that confuse password managers. I’ve experienced banking sites with multi-stage logins and CAPTCHA challenges that completely baffle my autofill function, leaving me to manually copy and paste credentials like it’s 2010.

Browser settings can also block your password manager from doing its job. If you’ve enabled strict privacy controls or have conflicting extensions installed, they might be preventing autofill from working properly. Having multiple password managers active, like your browser’s built-in tool alongside a third-party option, also creates conflicts.

So, if you’re using a third-party password manager, turn off Google Chrome’s Password Manager. To do this, disable “Offer to save passwords and passkeys” by visiting chrome://password-manager/settings.

For stubborn autofill problems, check your browser’s permission settings first, then try your password manager’s keyboard shortcuts to trigger the fill function manually. Unfortunately, the old copy-paste method is sometimes your only option for sites with unusual form designs.

5

Password Generator Creates Passwords Websites Won’t Accept

Often, password managers generate a “strong password,” only for a website to reject it immediately. The problem often stems from outdated or overly restrictive password policies that some websites still cling to. Some banking sites bizarrely limit passwords to 12 characters, completely defeating the purpose of using a generator in the first place.

Character restrictions are another headache entirely. Some sites forbid special characters or only allow certain ones, while others insist on specific combinations your password generator might not automatically include. It’s maddening when security tools work against each other like this.

The first fix is to customize your password generator and generate a relevant password before creating a new login. Most password managers let you adjust length and character sets to match specific website requirements. The best ones even let you save custom rules for particular websites.

You can also consider trying ChatGPT as a password generator or using one of the best online password generators with more flexible options if your password manager doesn’t offer one.

4

Can’t Access Passwords Across All Devices

It’s not good to know that when you’re looking for a password away from the main PC, the password isn’t available on your phone. This sync failure defeats the whole purpose of using a password manager. Most commonly, the reason is account tier limitations—many free password manager plans restrict how many devices you can use simultaneously.

Network connectivity issues frequently disrupt the syncing process, too. If one of your devices hasn’t connected to update recently, it might show different password versions. You might face this when traveling with spotty internet access, leaving you locked out of important accounts at the worst possible moments.

Another common problem is forgetting to install the necessary browser extensions or mobile apps across all your devices. The simplest fix is verifying that you’re logged into the same account everywhere and that your subscription allows multi-device access. For persistent sync problems, try manually triggering a sync or reinstalling the application on problematic devices.

Related

Differences Between Syncing and Backing Up Data You Must Know

Only one is a true safety net.

3

Trouble Importing Passwords From Another Manager

Switching password managers should be straightforward. Most services offer different storage formats, but they also provide CSV exports.

I recently switched to Proton Pass as my new favorite password manager due to its privacy focus. When I moved my vault recently, I discovered that encrypted JSON files from another manager wouldn’t import cleanly into another, forcing me to convert everything to CSV first.

Even when the import technically works, important data often gets lost in translation. I’ve seen password notes, custom fields, and folder structures completely vanish during transfers. For smooth transitions, always back up your password manager securely before migrating, and use CSV as your universal format when possible.

How to Back Up Your Password Manager Securely (and Why You Should!)

Peace of mind is worth a few extra steps.

2

Master Password Is Lost or Forgotten

The dreaded scenario every password manager user fears—forgetting your master password. This single point of failure is both the greatest strength and weakness of password managers. Without it, your carefully collected vault of passwords becomes impenetrable, locking you out of your entire online life in an instant.

The typical causes are predictable: creating an overly complex master password without sufficient practice, switching devices, or simply having a memory lapse during a stressful period. Whatever the reason, the panic that follows is universal. When my password manager suddenly crashed last year, I was lucky that I hadn’t stored many passwords yet, and restored my password manager master key fairly quickly.

Most services offer limited recovery options by design—after all, easy recovery would defeat the security purpose. Check if you set up a password hint, saved emergency access codes, or enabled trusted contact recovery. Some managers provide admin recovery for business accounts, but personal users often face harsher consequences.

For true peace of mind, consider writing your master password in a physical notebook kept somewhere secure. Digital security experts may cringe, but it’s better than a permanent lockout.

1

Security Concerns After Password Manager Data Breaches

Every time a major password manager breach makes headlines, my stomach drops. The LastPass data breach was alarming as it exposed encrypted password vaults, bringing into question the very tools we rely on for security. These incidents force uncomfortable questions about whether centralized password storage is fundamentally flawed.

Zero-day vulnerabilities present another worry entirely. These previously unknown security holes can exist for months before discovery, potentially giving attackers silent access to your data. Even more concerning are targeted phishing campaigns specifically designed to capture master passwords.

Despite these risks, abandoning password managers entirely isn’t the answer. Instead, strengthen your security by enabling two-factor authentication on both your password manager and important accounts. Regularly rotating your master password adds another layer of protection, as does staying informed about security news related to your provider.

If you’re concerned your data may have been compromised, take immediate steps to protect your credit rating, change your passwords, and follow our guide on protecting your accounts after a breach.

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How Do Data Breaches Happen? 6 Variables to Watch Out For

We hear about data breaches all the time, but they aren’t all conducted in the same way. How are attackers getting their hands on so much data?

Password managers remain necessary despite their occasional frustrations. I’ve experienced nearly all these issues firsthand, yet I still rely on one daily. The security benefits far outweigh the hassles. With these troubleshooting tips, you’ll spend less time fighting your password manager and more time enjoying the peace of mind it provides.