How to password Thunderbird

donnylad · 19 Jul 2022

Hi... Is there anyway I can password protect Mozilla thunderbird so it cant be opened please.?
Len

Windows 10

dalchina · 19 Jul 2022

Hi, just to check- are you specifically concerned that someone might use your PC when you are logged in to your account?

Or is there something else you seek to do- like preventing other users with accounts on your PC running Tbird?

I.e. what's the scenario that concerns you? Thanks.

donnylad · 19 Jul 2022

Thanks for the reply. the reason is I dont want anyone to use my computer and read my mails in case there is something they could use for their own motives, spam etc.
Len

das10 · 19 Jul 2022

Try going to Settings > Privacy & Security : Passwords section and tick "Use a Primary Password".

donnylad · 19 Jul 2022

Thanks for your help
Len

das10 · 19 Jul 2022

Sorry, it doesn't appear that that password protects against opening Thunderbird and viewing your messages after clicking 'Cancel' on the password prompt. It only protects against someone accessing your email account passwords.

Protect your Thunderbird passwords with a Primary Password | Thunderbird Help

dalchina · 19 Jul 2022

Thanks for the reply. the reason is I dont want anyone to use my computer and read my mails in case there is something they could use for their own motives, spam etc.

The reason I asked about your scenario is this:
Scenario 1:
You are logged in to your PC. You move away from it- some rogue comes to your PC and starts filching information.

How can you protect against that? You can lock your PC (Win key + L, with password protection). Also set the timeout before the lock screen applies.

Lock Computer in Windows 10
Automatically Lock Computer when Idle for Specified Time in Windows 10

Scenario 2: Some rogue gets a copy of your disk/data or steals your PC.

Unless your disk /data is encrypted, everything can be accessed one way or another.

See this review:
Protecting the contents of the profile - mail - MozillaZine Knowledge Base

and for interest:
Thunderbird Profile Encryption - Super User

donnylad · 21 Jul 2022

Thhankyou very very much, the info was very helpful. I understand what was said but it is way above my capabilities.
I have seen a prog called secret folder which when installed I can select any folder with a password, but I havent made up my mind to use it. Thanks again.
Len