Under a new policy update in May 2023, Google will delete Gmail accounts that have been inactive for at least two years. The Gmail purge will be phased in, not rolled out all at once, starting December 1.
If your Gmail account is at risk of being deleted, Google will send multiple notifications to the email associated with that account. If you want to make sure your content on Google Drive, Docs, Gmail, and more is preserved, here's what you need to know.
Google's Gmail purge is being carried out in phases, not all at once, starting on December 1. |
Why does Google delete inactive Gmail accounts?
In an announcement in May 2023, Google said the decision was to enhance security. Gmail accounts that have been inactive for a long time are more likely to be hacked.
Additionally, these Gmail accounts use old passwords, lack two-factor authentication, and are poorly secured. As a result, they are vulnerable to being hacked and used for spam, other malicious purposes, or identity theft.
How to stop Google from deleting old Gmail
The easiest way to keep your Gmail accounts is to log in at least once every two years. Other actions include sending emails, reading emails, using Google to search, and watching YouTube while logged in.
Paid subscriptions installed with a Google account, including third-party apps or news publications, also count as active.
Additionally, content on Google Photos may be deleted after 2 years of inactivity, meaning you'll need to open the app more often to avoid having your photos deleted.
Exceptions
Only personal Google accounts that haven't been used in two years or more are affected. Accounts for organizations like schools or businesses are exempt.
Additionally, there are Google accounts that manage active minor accounts, accounts used to purchase products, and accounts that contain Google gift cards, apps, or subscriptions.
A Google spokesperson confirmed that the company has no plans to delete the account used to post YouTube videos .
How to save data from Google account
In addition to keeping your Google account active, you can use a number of tools to manage and back up your data. For example, Google Takeout allows users to download and export data from non-Google accounts at any time.
The Inactive Account Manager tool lets you choose what happens to your account and data if it becomes inactive, including options to send specific files to trusted contacts or permanently delete the account.
Google's new policy also says the company may work with family members to close a deceased family member's accounts and/or provide some content associated with that account without sharing login information.
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