google-to-delete-inactive-gmail-accounts-from-september

Google has announced it is proceeding with its plan to delete inactive Gmail accounts, a measure initially promised last year. This move aims to enhance online security and clean up neglected digital spaces.

 

In May 2023, Google revealed its intention to start a mass deletion of dormant accounts, citing security concerns as a primary driver. The company highlighted that inactive accounts are more vulnerable to being compromised due to outdated or reused passwords and a lack of recent security checks.

 

"Accounts that haven't been used for extended periods are at a higher risk of compromise," Google stated in a recent blog post.

 

The tech giant explained that these accounts often lack updated two-step verification, making them more susceptible to security breaches.

 

Abandoned accounts are ten times less likely to have two-step verification enabled compared to active ones, increasing their risk of being exploited for identity theft or spam.

 

A contributor to News Arena India reported receiving a notification from Google indicating that an unused account would be deleted on September 20. This deletion would include all associated content, such as emails, Google Photos, and Google Docs.

 

While the contributor expressed no concern about this cleanup, the decision might affect many users who may not have been active for some time.

 

Google has outlined several methods to prevent account deletion. Users can keep their accounts active by signing in at least once every two years.

 

Additionally, engagement with various Google services—such as sending or reading emails, using Google Drive, watching YouTube videos, downloading apps from the Google Play Store, or utilising "sign in with Google" for third-party services—can also keep an account from being deactivated.

 

The company emphasised that before deleting any account, it will send multiple notifications to both the account holder and any recovery email provided.

 

This phased approach will start with accounts that were created but never used, ensuring users have ample opportunity to reactivate their accounts before deletion.