Google is preparing to delete inactive Gmail accounts starting December 1, 2023. This solution applies to accounts that have not been used in the last two years, covering all associated data including emails, Drive files, photos, and contacts.
The decision to delete inactive accounts is due to the increased vulnerability of old accounts to cyber attacks. According to Google’s internal data, inactive accounts are ten times less likely to have two-factor authentication than active accounts. The lack of security measures makes old accounts more susceptible to hacking attempts.
Additionally, any external services associated with an inactive Gmail account are also at risk of being hacked. To solve these problems and protect user data, Google decided to delete accounts that have been inactive for two years.
However, not all inactive accounts will be deleted at once. Google will begin phasing out accounts in small groups starting in December 2023. This phased approach gives users time to reactivate their accounts if they still want to use them.
Once you delete your account, all associated data, including emails, Drive files, documents, appointments, and other files, will be permanently deleted. This action is irreversible and users will not be able to recover their data.
Keep your Gmail account active: Tips to prevent deletion
To prevent their accounts from being deleted, users simply need to sign in to their Gmail accounts at least once every two years. This minimum activity will ensure that their account remains active and prevents them from being deleted.
In addition to regular logins, users can perform various actions to keep their accounts active and prevent deletion. They include:
- Using Google Drive
- Watch YouTube videos
- Downloading apps from the Google Play store
- Do a Google search
- Use Google Sign-in for third-party apps or services
It’s worth noting that Google currently has no plans to remove inactive accounts from YouTube videos. This means that if an old unused account is associated with YouTube and contains a public video, Google will not delete that account despite inactivity. However, the company may update this policy in the future.