In a bid to boost user security, Google is rolling out a new policy on December 1 that will delete many inactive accounts, spanning Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, YouTube and Google Photos.
The move targets accounts vulnerable to compromise, often due to outdated or reused passwords.
This updated policy marks a departure from 2020, where only content, not the accounts themselves, faced removal.
To counter security threats, Google underscores the heightened risk of inactive accounts lacking usage, monitoring or updated passwords.
Inactive accounts, 10 times less likely than active ones to have two-factor authentication, become attractive to hackers.
This deletion strategy aligns with Google's commitment to user privacy and security.
To protect personal Google Accounts, users should note the policy applies solely to personal accounts, excluding those linked to organizations.
Fortunately, active users of Gmail, Docs, Calendar, and Photos don't need to worry, as the policy targets only inactive accounts.
Google pledges to send multiple notifications to users before any deletion occurs. For users with long-inactive accounts, Google recommends proactive measures for account retention.
Reactivation can be achieved by logging in or following email instructions.
Actions like reading and sending an email, using Google Drive, watching a YouTube video, downloading from the Google Play Store, searching on Google or using "Sign in with Google" for third-party apps can maintain account activity.
Active subscriptions tied to a Google Account, such as Google One, count as activity, preventing deletion.
