Does LastPass automatically logout?

Answered by Tom Adger

LastPass has an option to automatically log you out of your account for security reasons. This feature helps protect your sensitive information in case you forget to manually log out or if you leave your computer unattended.

To manage this setting, you can go to the LastPass web browser extension Preferences. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the browser you are using, but I will provide a general guide:

1. Open your web browser and click on the LastPass extension icon in the toolbar.
2. In the LastPass menu, click on “Preferences” or a similar option that allows you to access the settings.
3. Look for a section related to security or account settings. It may be labeled as “Security”, “Account Settings”, or something similar.
4. Within the security settings, you should find an option to manage the automatic log out feature. It may be called “Automatic Logoff”, “Log out when idle”, or something similar.
5. Click on the option to enable or disable automatic log out according to your preference.

When you enable the automatic log out feature, you can usually specify the idle time period after which LastPass will log you out. This idle time refers to the inactivity period when you are not actively using LastPass or interacting with the extension.

By setting a reasonable idle time, you can strike a balance between convenience and security. If you set a very short idle time, you may find yourself frequently prompted to log back in, which can be bothersome. On the other hand, setting a longer idle time may increase the risk of unauthorized access if you forget to manually log out.

I personally find it helpful to enable the automatic log out feature with a moderate idle time. This way, I don’t have to worry about remembering to log out every time I finish using LastPass, and it provides an extra layer of security in case I forget to lock my computer when I step away.

In addition to the idle time setting, LastPass also provides an option to keep you logged in even when you close your browser. This can be convenient if you frequently use LastPass and prefer not to enter your master password every time you open your browser. However, it is important to consider the security implications and weigh the risks versus the convenience.

To summarize, LastPass does offer an automatic log out feature to enhance the security of your account. You can manage this setting in the LastPass web browser extension Preferences, and it typically allows you to specify an idle time period after which you will be automatically logged out. By enabling this feature and setting a reasonable idle time, you can help protect your sensitive information while balancing convenience.