Proton Pass password manager adds identity data, biometric authentication

Proton Pass, the password manager unveiled last year by the makers of the Proton VPN, is celebrating its first anniversary with a set of new security features. The cross-platform password manager now offers the ability to store detailed personal information (such as identities) and is also adding biometric authentication for the Windows and MacOS apps. 

According to Proton, these enhancements are designed to streamline the user experience, boost productivity, and strengthen security. 

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Proton Pass users can now add personal information such as names and addresses and have these fields used for autofill entries. Also, Proton Pass now supports expanded item stores for contact numbers, email addresses, social security numbers, passport numbers, license numbers, websites, social media handles, as well as custom fields. This expanded storage capability simplifies the management of personal information across all supported platforms, the company said.

"In today's fast-paced digital world, managing and entering personal information repeatedly can be time-consuming and prone to errors," Proton noted in its official announcement. "Research shows that 27% of individuals abandon a form if it's too long or complicated. With the average form taking around 8.5 minutes to complete, it's clear why many users are discouraged from finishing them."

This new identity feature aims to save you time, reduce errors, and enhance security. In the world of password managers, an identity is a feature that allows users to store and manage personal information associated with online accounts securely. The information stored includes things like personal information, secure storage, auto-fill data, social security numbers, passport numbers, etc. Consider this: You might want to create an identity for each member of your family, so you always have their important information at the ready. Identities make that possible (securely).

The latest release also includes biometric authentication for the Windows and MacOS apps. Note that this addition applies only to users with Pass Plus and above. Users with a supporting plan can now make use of Windows Hello and Touch ID to unlock Proton Pass for an added layer of security and convenience.

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"With the introduction of identities and biometric authentication, Proton Pass is significantly boosting productivity for our users," said Proton Pass product lead Son Nguyen Kim of the new features. "These features not only enhance our security offerings but also streamline everyday tasks, allowing users to save time and reduce stress in managing their digital lives." 

The new features are available starting today, with identities available to all users and biometric authentication for those on Pass Plus and above paid plans.