In a recent announcement, Google unveiled changes to its account inactivity policy, which has implications for users who may have dormant Google Accounts. The main purpose of this policy update is to enhance security and privacy while ensuring that user accounts are actively used. Let's delve into the details of what this means for you and how to keep your Google Account active.
What's Changing?
Starting from today, Google is extending the inactivity period for Google Accounts to two years across all its products and services. Inactivity is defined as an account that hasn't been signed into or used for a two-year period. Accounts that fall into this category will be subject to potential deletion from December 1, 2023.
What Does This Mean for You?
The good news is that these changes won't impact you unless your Google Account has been inactive for two years or more, or you haven't used your account to sign in to any Google service for over two years. If you've used your account within the past two years, your account is considered active and won't be deleted.
Notification Process
Google understands the importance of safeguarding your data and account. Therefore, before taking any action or deleting an account, Google will send multiple reminder emails to the account holder and their recovery email addresses, if provided. These reminder emails will be sent at least eight months before any action is taken on the account. So, you'll have ample notice if your account falls into the inactive category.
How to Keep Your Account Active
Maintaining an active Google Account is straightforward. All you need to do is sign in to your account at least once every two years. However, there are various other activities that also count towards keeping your account active, such as:
1. Reading or sending an email
2. Using Google Drive
3. Watching a YouTube video
4. Sharing a photo
5. Downloading an app
6. Using Google Search
7. Signing in with Google to access third-party apps or services
These actions are not only beneficial for keeping your account active but also for ensuring that you're making the most of Google's services.
Exceptions to the Policy
There are some exceptions to this inactivity policy. For instance, Google Accounts associated with YouTube channels, videos, or comments, accounts with a gift card balance, or those that have published applications on the Google Play store may not be subject to deletion.
Managing Your Data
Google provides tools to help you manage your account and data. You can back up your data using Google Takeout and set up the Inactive Account Manager to plan for what happens to your data if your account becomes inactive for a specific period.
In conclusion, Google's updated inactivity policy is designed to enhance security and privacy while ensuring that unused accounts don't clutter the system. If you want to keep your Google Account active, simply engage with Google services in any of the mentioned ways, and you'll receive plenty of notice before any action is taken on your account. Remember to keep your recovery email up to date for added security.
