Protect Your Gmail and Photos Before April 3—Here’s How
Are You at Risk of Losing Your Google Account? Here’s What You Need to Know
As of March 1, 2025, Google is taking drastic steps regarding the deletion of inactive accounts. If you haven’t logged into your Google account for more than two years, your account may be at risk, including all emails, photos, and documents stored in it. This article explains how to prevent your Google account from being deleted and what steps you need to take to stay active.
Why Is Google Deleting Accounts?
Google has identified a security issue related to inactive accounts. According to a statement from Ruth Kricheli, accounts that haven’t been used for long periods are more likely to be hacked. Therefore, accounts that remain dormant for over two years will be deleted, along with all associated data.
In an email I received with the subject line “Urgent: Sign in to your Google Account if you want to keep it,” I was informed that one of my accounts would be deleted if I did not take action. This email wasn’t just a scam; it was a legitimate warning about my account related to their new policy on inactive accounts.
How to Keep Your Google Account Active
Keeping your Google account from being deleted is simple: just use it! You need to log in or perform any activity on your account, such as:
- Sending or reading an email
- Watching a YouTube video
- Storing files on Google Drive
- Sharing photos
- Using Google Search
Even logging in is enough to prevent your account from being marked as inactive. So, if you have accounts that you rarely use, it’s a good idea to sign in regularly to keep them alive.
Understanding Google’s Inactivity Policy
Google’s inactivity policy is strict. Here’s what you need to know:
- This policy applies only to personal Google accounts. Accounts offered by schools or businesses are not affected.
- Inactivity is defined as not using Google services for two years. If your account falls under this inactivity category, it will be deleted.
Google’s reasoning is that abandoned accounts pose security risks, making them vulnerable to hacking. By removing these accounts, Google aims to protect user privacy and data.
Strategies to Manage Multiple Google Accounts
Many people find themselves juggling multiple Google accounts. Here’s how to manage them efficiently:
Creating and Switching Accounts
If you need to create a new Google account, simply sign out of the current account. Go to the Google Account sign-in page and click on “Create Account.” Following the prompts is easy, and you’ll have your new account set up in no time.
To switch accounts, click on your avatar in the top right corner of any Google service, select “Add Account,” and enter the details of your new account. You can easily switch between multiple accounts this way.
Using Account Forwarding
To ensure you don’t miss important emails, you can set up email forwarding. This feature will send all incoming emails from one account to another. This way, you can have a central account where you receive all important communications.
Enable Security Measures
Protecting your Google accounts with security measures is also important. Use unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for added security. Additionally, consider creating a passkey linked to a different device to further safeguard your information.
How to Verify Account Activity
To make sure you stay active and avoid any deletions, regularly check your account’s activity. Google offers a “Security Checkup” feature that allows you to review all activity on your Google accounts. If you notice any unusual activity, take action immediately.
Final Thoughts on Google Account Management
The changes in Google’s inactive account policy may seem alarming, but staying active is straightforward. By following the tips mentioned above, you can ensure your Google account remains safe and your data is secure. Remember, regular usage and safety measures are key to keeping your online presence protected.
