accounts.
In addition to the security concerns, Google also aims to free up storage space and resources by deleting content from inactive accounts. With billions of active Gmail and Google Photos users, there is a significant amount of data stored in these accounts. By removing content from unused accounts, Google can optimize its infrastructure and provide better services for active users.
What does this mean for users?
For users who have unused Google accounts, this policy change means that their content stored in services like Gmail, Google Photos, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, and more could be permanently deleted starting from December 2023.
It is crucial for users to be aware of this change and to regularly sign in to their accounts to prevent them from becoming inactive. By regularly accessing your account, you can ensure that your content is safe from deletion and that you maintain control over your data.
Google will send multiple notifications prior to the deletion process to the account’s email address and recovery email. It is important to pay attention to these notifications and take any necessary actions to keep your account active.
How to keep your account active and secure?
To keep your Google account active and secure, follow these recommendations:
1. Sign in regularly: Make it a habit to sign in to your Google account regularly, at least once every two years. This will prevent your account from being classified as inactive.
2. Enable two-factor authentication: Set up two-step verification for your account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of authentication, such as a unique code or a fingerprint.
3. Use strong and unique passwords: Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts and create strong, complex passwords that are difficult to guess. Consider using a password manager to help you generate and store your passwords securely.
4. Keep recovery information up to date: Ensure that your recovery email address and phone number associated with your Google account are accurate and up to date. This will help you regain access to your account if you ever forget your password or need to recover your account.
By following these best practices, you can maintain an active and secure Google account, protecting your data from deletion and potential security breaches.Google is advising its users to take additional steps to protect their accounts from security threats. One suggestion is to use a password manager application in conjunction with two-factor authentication. This approach allows users to have strong and unique passwords for each account or service without having to remember them all individually.
If you have a Google account that you haven’t accessed in a while, it’s crucial to retrieve your forgotten password. Google has stated that it will provide warnings to users in these situations, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
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