In a recent and noteworthy development, Google has unveiled an important update to its policy regarding inactive accounts. The tech giant has taken the initiative to delete Google accounts that have remained dormant or unused for a minimum period of two years. This move is part of Google’s commitment to enhancing user security and minimizing potential risks associated with maintaining inactive accounts. To apprise its users of this change, Google has proactively started notifying them, enabling them to prevent their accounts from being automatically deleted.
The implementation of Google’s new policy is scheduled to commence in December 2023. To ensure users have ample time to respond, the company plans to send warning emails eight months in advance to alert users whose accounts are at risk of deletion. It’s crucial to bear in mind that this deletion will also have a lasting impact on all the content stored in the inactive accounts. From Gmail and Docs to Drive, Meet, Calendar, YouTube, and Google Photos, all data associated with the accounts will be permanently removed.
Google Can Delete YouTube and Gmail Accounts for Specific Users
Google’s decision to prioritize user security through this account cleanup effort reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding user data and maintaining a secure digital ecosystem. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, such measures underscore the importance of keeping accounts active and regularly monitored to avoid any unfortunate consequences.
“We will take a phased approach, starting with accounts that were created and never used again. Before deleting an account, we will send multiple notifications over the months leading up to deletion, to both the account email address and the recovery email (if one has been provided),” says Google.
But Why is Google Deleting Inactive Accounts?
Google aims to bolster security by deleting inactive accounts after two years. Abandoned accounts lack two-factor authentication, making them vulnerable to hacking, as they are 10 times less likely to have this protection compared to active accounts. This move ensures a safer digital environment for users.
“This is because forgotten or unattended accounts often rely on old or re-used passwords that may have been compromised, haven’t had two-factor authentication set up, and receive fewer security checks by the user,” mentioned in the official blog post.
How You Can Keep Your Google Account Active?
In a bid to reinforce security measures, Google has unveiled its plan to issue warning emails to users with inactive accounts, urging them to reactivate their profiles. If you happen to possess a Google account that has languished unused for an extended period, fret not, for there are specific measures you can employ to thwart its deletion. The primary step involves logging into an account that has been forsaken for around two years. Moreover, to ensure the sustained activity of your accounts, consider implementing the following actions.
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Functions include:
- Reading & sending an email
- Utilizing Google Drive
- Streaming YouTube video
- Downloading an app on the Google Play Store
- Using Google Search
