It’s time to update any unused Google accounts, or else you risk losing them. The business stated that it could deactivate Google accounts that have not been used or even registered in the last two years. Later in 2023, this rule will go into effect and apply to all Google accounts, including Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, YouTube, and Google Photos.
Google claims that those dormant accounts are more vulnerable to hacking. They could make use of hacked passwords that are obsolete and old. The data is also less secure since, according to Google, these older accounts are 10 times less likely to have two-factor authentication set up.
“These accounts are often vulnerable, and once an account is compromised, it can be used for anything from identity theft to a vector for unwanted or even malicious content, like spam,” the Post reports.
Keeping your Google accounts safe
When will accounts on Google be deleted?
In theory, you still have time because Google won’t begin erasing accounts until December 2023. Additionally, newly established accounts that have never been used before will be the first accounts to be terminated.
Google also claims to give many alerts prior to account deletion. Both the primary account email address and any backup email addresses given will get such messages.It is better to take action right away rather than risk losing something of value.
Which Google accounts need you to be concerned about?
You may have many accounts for well-known services like Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, and Calendar, which are all part of Google Workspace. Google Photos and YouTube are also impacted.Only personal Google Accounts are impacted by the change in policy; accounts used by institutions like corporations or schools are unaffected.