This file is generated when you use the feature in Google Chrome or the Android system settings:

This file is not created automatically. It appears only after a user follows these steps in Google Chrome or the Android Settings: Open or your phone’s Settings . Navigate to Google Password Manager . Go to the Settings gear icon within the manager. Select Export Passwords .

Some Android malware (e.g., “Cerberus” or “Ermac” trojans) specifically searches for *passwords*.csv in /storage/emulated/0/Download/ . Once found, it exfiltrates the file to a remote server.

If you grant an app (like a PDF converter or file manager) storage permission, it could theoretically read and upload your google_passwords.csv without your explicit consent.

If you need to legitimately create this file (e.g., to back up your passwords or import them into another password manager), follow these steps.

Empty the Trash/Bin to ensure the file is permanently removed from the device. Importing Passwords Back to Google

Simply deleting the file via the Files app is not enough – it may be recoverable. Use a like “Shreddit – Data Eraser” or “Secure Eraser” to overwrite the file contents.

While Google securely stores your passwords in the cloud, some users prefer a local "offline" backup. Exporting to a .csv allows you to keep a physical copy of your passwords on a USB drive or external hard drive.