Google has announced a major policy change that will see millions of inactive Gmail accounts deleted starting December 2023. This move aims to enhance security and prevent these dormant accounts from being hijacked by scammers.
Inactivity Leads to Deletion
Beginning in three weeks, any Gmail account that has not been used for over two years will be subject to deletion. This policy extends to related services like Google Drive, Docs, Calendar, Meet, and Google Photos. Users with inactive accounts will receive multiple notifications before their accounts are removed.
Security at the Forefront
Google’s decision is primarily driven by the need to reduce security risks associated with inactive accounts, which are more vulnerable to misuse by cybercriminals for spamming or spreading malicious content.
Who Will Be Affected?
The cleanup will start with accounts created and never used again, often for accessing free trials. However, users can prevent their accounts from being deleted by simply logging in once every two years. Activities like reading an email, watching a YouTube video, or using Google search count as active use.
Specific Conditions for Account Activity
- Google Photos: Separate login required to avoid photo deletion.
- Active Subscriptions: Users with active Gmail-based subscriptions are safe.
- YouTube Creators: Accounts with uploaded YouTube videos are not at risk.
- Business and School Accounts: These are exempt from the policy change.
Protection Against Compromise
Ruth Kricheli, vice president for product management at Google, explains that unattended accounts are often compromised due to outdated security measures like old passwords and lack of two-factor authentication. Compromised accounts can be misused for identity theft or as a platform for unwanted content.
What Can Users Do?
- Regularly log in to Google services.
- Set up a recovery email for account access.
- Use the Google Takeout feature to download and export data.
- Configure the Inactive Account Manager for specific actions on dormant accounts.
Keeping Your Gmail Secure
In response to concerns over Gmail data privacy, Google has provided tips to keep accounts secure:
- Security Checkup Tool: Allows users to review device sign-ins, security issues, and third-party app access.
- Review Permissions: Users should scrutinize permissions before granting non-Google apps access to their Gmail.
- Control Permissions: Manage and remove access for apps and services no longer trusted.
This development highlights Google’s ongoing efforts to protect user data and maintain the integrity of its services. Users are advised to take proactive steps to ensure their accounts remain active and secure.
More news from Reading
