Technology

Google is deleting some Gmail accounts this week. How to save yours?

Debodinna ChakrabortyNovember 29, 2023 | 15:17 IST

From December 1, Google will delete inactive accounts and all related content, like photos, emails, and documents, in line with its updated policy, aimed at boosting user security by mitigating risks such as spam, phishing scams, and account hijacking. 

What

  • This week, Google is set to initiate the removal of inactive accounts in accordance with its inactive account policy. 
  • Google announced in May this year that starting December 1, 2023, inactive accounts will face data deletion across Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, YouTube, and Google Photos if left unused or unlogged into for at least two years.
"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." 
- Ruth Kricheli, Google's VP of product management
  • This strategic move aligns with Google's commitment to enhancing user security and mitigating risks linked to the retention of inactive accounts.

How to save your Gmail account?

You can prevent data deletion from your Google account by just following these few simple steps. 

  • Log in and engage with various Google tools like Gmail, Google Drive, Google Photos, and Google Play. 
  • Read or send emails via Gmail.
  • Use Google Drive
  • Watch YouTube videos
  • Download apps from the Google Play store
  • Search on Google and use "Sign in with Google" for third-party apps or services. 

If you're a Google user, you can also save your data and let old accounts expire by using Google Takeout after visiting the Google site, and follow the steps to secure your information.

Last updated: November 29, 2023 | 15:17
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