Haven’t checked your Google account for a while? you should do it now Google just updated their inactive account policy. This means that Google accounts that have been unused for at least two years could soon be deleted. That’s because Google believes these accounts are more vulnerable through the use of outdated, less secure passwords and a lack of two-factor authentication.
What’s included? A comprehensive extinguishing plan
In a recent blog post, Google confirmed that accounts that have not been used for at least two years could be deleted. This affects content from many Google services, including Gmail, Google Docs, Google Drive, Google Meet, Calendar, YouTube, and Google Photos. It’s important to note that this policy only applies to personal Google Accounts and not to work or school accounts.
When and how? time frame and communication
Google has announced that the first deletions will start from December 2023. Before that happens, Google promises to inform affected users in good time. Communication occurs through both primary and recovery email addresses.
In order to maintain an active Google Account, it is recommended by Google to sign in at least once every two years. If you have logged into any Google service recently, your account will be considered active and will not be deleted. Activities include reading or sending email, using Google Drive, watching YouTube videos, downloading Google Play apps, using Google search, or active subscriptions through a Google account.
This decision by Google to delete inactive accounts represents a change of course. Previously, Google only stated that it would remove content from unused accounts while keeping the accounts themselves. This is now changing with the new plan.
Source Google Blog Post