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Google, the global tech giant, is taking a proactive step towards bolstering online security. To prevent security risks and safeguard user data, the company will commence deleting inactive Google accounts this week.
Prioritizing Account Security
According to CNN, the company aims to protect users' private information, with the first phase targeting accounts that have remained unused since its creation. Google's findings indicate that these inactive accounts are more susceptible to potential threats such as phishing, hacking, and spam.
Their vulnerability arises from outdated security measures, including reliance on recycled passwords and the absence of two-step verification.
Since August, Google has been sending multiple alerts to impacted accounts, as well as their user-registered backup emails. This phased approach emphasizes the significance of securing personal data, even for users who no longer actively utilize Google services.
By erasing inactive Google accounts, the company aims to eliminate potential risks associated with old, compromised data. Google's suite of services, encompassing Gmail, Docs, Drive, and Photos, all hold content that may be at risk of erasure.
Oren Koren, Chief Product Officer and Co-founder of cybersecurity firm Veriti emphasizes the importance of eliminating old accounts to enhance overall digital security. By shrinking the attack surface available to cyber criminals, Google's action aligns with a broader trend in cybersecurity - taking preemptive steps to safeguard user data.
Exceptions to the Deletion
Several exceptions have been outlined to accommodate certain user scenarios. Accounts linked to YouTube channels, those with remaining gift card balances, digital purchases (e.g., books, movies), and published apps active on platforms like the Google Play store will not be affected by the deletion policy, as clarified by Google in August.
Safeguard Your Account
USA Today shared that to avoid an account from being wiped, the user should simply log in to their Google account or any Google service at least once every two years. It's as easy as reading an email, watching a video, or performing a single search.
Photo: Mitchell Luo/Unsplash
