How to Check for Compromised Passwords on macOS 13
macOS 13 Ventura includes a built-in security tool that cross-references your saved Keychain credentials against known data breaches. By accessing the Passwords section in your Mac's System Settings, you can quickly identify which of your online accounts have been exposed in security leaks and take immediate action to update them.
Step 1: Open System Settings
- Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
- Select System Settings from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Access the Passwords Manager
- Scroll down the left sidebar and click Passwords.
- Authenticate using your Touch ID or enter your Mac administrator password.
Step 3: View Security Recommendations
- Click Security Recommendations at the top of the passwords list.
- Ensure the toggle switch next to Detect Compromised Passwords is turned on. macOS uses secure cryptographic techniques to check your passwords against leaked credential lists without revealing the passwords to Apple.
Step 4: Identify Compromised Accounts
- Review the list of flagged accounts displayed under the recommendations section.
- Look for accounts marked with warnings such as "This password has appeared in a data leak" or "This password is easy to guess."
- Click on any flagged entry to view the specific security alert and vulnerability details.
Step 5: Update Exposed Passwords
- Click the Change Password on Website button next to the vulnerable credential.
- macOS will open Safari directly to the sign-in or password reset page for that service.
- Log in and create a new, strong, unique password for the account.
- When prompted by Safari, choose to update your saved password in the macOS Keychain.