Google's New Policy: Deleting Unused Gmail Accounts for Enhanced Security

Inactive Gmail Accounts Face Deletion As Google Implements New Policy

Google has announced a new policy that targets inactive Gmail accounts, specifically those that haven't been used in over two years. The policy change aims to improve cyber security by eliminating older accounts that are more susceptible to security threats, spam, viruses, and hijacking. The deletion process will also apply to accounts across Google Drive and Google Photos. However, it's important to note that this policy only applies to personal accounts and not accounts reserved for business purposes.

The implementation of this policy has raised concerns among users who may have forgotten about their inactive accounts. Starting from December of this year, the account purge will begin to take effect. If you have any inactive Gmail accounts that you wish to preserve, there's still time. Simply sign in to your Google account at least once every two years to signal to Google that your account is active. Ongoing subscriptions associated with your account can also indicate activity.

Google has emphasized that it will send multiple notifications over the course of several months before any deletion occurs. This proactive approach aims to ensure that users have ample time to take action and prevent the loss of their accounts and associated data.

Key takeaways:

• Google is implementing a new policy targeting inactive Gmail accounts that haven't been used in over two years.
• The policy aims to enhance cyber security by eliminating older and inactive accounts that are more vulnerable to security threats.
• The account purge will begin in December, but users have the opportunity to preserve their accounts by signing in at least once every two years and maintaining active subscriptions.
• Google will send multiple notifications before any deletion takes place to provide users with sufficient time to take action.