In a significant move to enhance user security and mitigate risks associated with maintaining inactive accounts, Google has recently rolled out a new policy. This policy mandates the deletion of inactive accounts that have not been used for at least two years.
A Closer Look at the Policy
Google’s new policy is set to take effect in December 2023. The tech giant is currently notifying users about this change to help them prevent their accounts from being automatically deleted. The deletion will not only affect the Gmail and YouTube accounts but also impact all content stored in these inactive accounts. This includes Google Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, and Google Photos.
The company plans to adopt a phased approach, initially targeting accounts that were created and never used again. Users whose accounts are at risk of deletion will receive warning emails well in advance.
The Rationale Behind Deleting Inactive Accounts
The primary objective behind this policy change is to bolster Google’s security system. According to the company, abandoned accounts are at least ten times less likely than active accounts to have two-factor authentication set up. This makes them more susceptible to hacking.
By deleting these inactive accounts, Google aims to reduce the risk of such attacks. Active accounts typically have two-factor authentication set up and receive more frequent security checks by the user, making them less vulnerable.
It’s important to note that this new policy applies only to personal Google Accounts. It will not impact accounts associated with organizations such as schools or businesses.
What Does This Mean for Users?
For users, this policy change underscores the importance of regularly using and maintaining their Google accounts. If you have a Google account, you haven’t used in a while, now might be a good time to log in and check your settings. Remember, it’s not just about keeping your account active; it’s also about ensuring your account is secure.
Wrapping Up
Google’s new policy is a reminder of the importance of digital hygiene. Regularly checking and updating your online accounts is a crucial part of maintaining your digital security. As we progress, it will be interesting to see how other tech companies respond to similar security challenges.
