How to Share Passwords Securely on macOS 13

Sharing passwords with family members on macOS 13 Ventura is both simple and secure thanks to Apple's built-in password management features. By leveraging iCloud Keychain and AirDrop, macOS 13 allows you to transmit credentials and passkeys directly to trusted devices without exposing them over unencrypted channels like email or text messages. This guide outlines the prerequisites and step-by-step instructions needed to send sensitive login information safely to your family.

Prerequisites for Secure Sharing

Before sharing credentials, ensure that both your Mac and the recipient's Apple device meet the following requirements:

  • Both devices must have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on.
  • Both individuals must be saved in each other’s Contacts app with their respective Apple Account email addresses or phone numbers.
  • The recipient must have AirDrop enabled and set to receive from "Contacts Only" or "Everyone."

Steps to Share a Password on macOS 13

  1. Open System Settings: Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
  2. Access Passwords: Scroll down the left sidebar and click Passwords. Authenticate using Touch ID or your Mac’s user account password.
  3. Select the Account: Locate the website or service credential you wish to share by scrolling through the list or using the search bar, then click the Info (i) button next to it.
  4. Initiate the Share: Click the Share button (the square with an arrow pointing upward) located at the top right of the credential details window.
  5. Send via AirDrop: A window will appear displaying nearby devices. Select the family member’s device.
  6. Accept on the Receiving Device: The recipient will see a prompt to accept the password. Once accepted, the credential automatically saves directly into their own iCloud Keychain.

Security Best Practices

Using AirDrop to send credentials guarantees that the data is protected with end-to-end encryption during transit. Because the password integrates directly into the recipient's keychain, neither party needs to write down or copy-paste plain text, significantly reducing the risk of accidental exposure or unauthorized interception.