Google Inactivity Accounts Policy – What you need to know
Google have recently updated their accounts policy and written to all account holders. Like many, you may have dismissed this, but it is important to go back and revisit it, otherwise you may find your account deleted.
Inactivity Period
Google is updating their inactivity period so that if you haven’t signed in or used it within a 2-year period then it will be eligible for deletion from 1st December 2023.
Why are Google doing this?
Google wants to keep your account and information safe. Inactive accounts pose a risk to unauthorised access, plus also Google don’t want to store your personal files and data for a long time if they are no longer needed.
How does this affect you?
If you just have the one Google account then chances are that you are using it. However, many of us have set up Google accounts as a backup or spare email account, just in case. Google will email you several times, at least 8 months in advance if they consider your account inactive. The most important thing to note is that, once the account is deleted, the Gmail address cannot be used again.
Tips to keep your Google Account active
If you don’t want your account deleted on 1st December 2023 then try one of the following ideas to keep your account active:
- Sign into your account once every 2 years
- Read or send an email from this account
- Use your Google Drive
- Watch a Youtube video when signed in with that account
- Share a photo
- Download an app
- Use Google search
- Sign into a third-party app using the Google Sign In option
Google’s Final Advice
Keep an eye out for emails from Google regarding the inactivity policy. Log into your account and find one easy way to keep your Google account active. Finally, check your recovery email is still correct and verify this.
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