Forgotten your master password?
We understand this is a stressful situation. Here's what you need to know and what options you have.
Geslar cannot reset your master password. This is not a limitation — it's a design decision that protects your data. Zero-knowledge architecture means that neither we, nor anyone else, have access to your data.
Why we can't — and why that's a good thing
If Geslar could reset your password, it would mean we have access to your data. And that would mean:
- A hacker who breaks into Geslar's server could see your passwords.
- A Geslar employee could access your data.
- A government or court could request your data from us.
None of this is possible because your key exists only on your device. This is the same protection used by banking HSM systems — but in your browser.
What you can try
Think again
The master password is often a phrase or word you wrote down on paper. Check safe places: a safe, drawer, notebook. You might have put it on a note near your computer.
Do you have a backup?
If you created a backup in an unencrypted format (CSV or universal JSON) — those files can be opened and imported into a new vault with a new master password.
Passwords in the browser?
If you haven't disabled the browser's built-in password manager, your old passwords might still be there. Check chrome://password-manager or about:logins in Firefox.
If nothing works
If you can't find the master password and don't have an unencrypted backup:
- Delete the vault (Settings → Data → Delete vault).
- Create a new vault with a new master password.
- Change passwords on all important accounts manually (email, bank, social media).
- Save the new passwords in Škrinjar and this time, make a backup.
This is a painful lesson, but it leads to the most important advice: write your master password on paper and store it in a safe place. Two copies, two locations.
How to prevent this in the future
Write it down
Two copies in two physical locations (safe, locked drawer).
Regular backups
Encrypted backup on a USB drive — every week.
Use a passphrase
A phrase of 4 words is easier to remember than random characters. Learn more.