Google is preparing to improve user security by cleaning out inactive Gmail accounts in December. The decision is driven by the realization that forgotten or neglected accounts are more vulnerable to compromise due to the lack of security measures such as two-step verification.
In an effort to improve account security, the company noticed a considerably reduced possibility of abandoned accounts with two-step verification enabled, putting them open to a variety of risks such as identity theft and malicious material distribution such as spam.
Starting on December 1, Google will begin removing Gmail accounts that remain dormant for two years, along with the related content and data. It is crucial to clarify that this regulation does not apply to accounts created by businesses or schools.
Before any deletion occurs, users will get notification via both the account’s email address and, if provided, a recovery email.
A simple procedure is necessary to ensure that Google’s cleanup initiative is not affect your account . All you have to do is sign in once every two years.
Sending or reading an email, using Google Drive, watching a YouTube video, downloading from the Google Play Store, executing a Google Search, or using Google for third-party app logins are all examples of appropriate activities that will keep your account active.
Furthermore, subscriptions to services such as Google One, following news sources, or having apps connect to your Google account all contribute to the account’s activity status.
By implementing these procedures, you can keep your Gmail accounts from registering as inactive.
Remember that taking a proactive approach to account maintenance provides not just security but also continuous access to your valuable data and Gmail account-related services.