Google announced that it will start deleting millions of inactive Gmail accounts beginning December 2023. The company is taking this step to strengthen security protections and safeguard active users' accounts and data.
Any personal Google account not accessed by logging in for a minimum of two years will be evaluated for removal. This encompasses all emails, files, photos, videos and other stored content associated with the account. Institutional accounts for schools or businesses have been excluded from this policy change.
Ruth Killeavy, Google's Vice President of Product Management, stated this modification aims to enhance security. Accounts inactive for extended periods face increased risks of hacking or phishing as passwords may have degraded over time. By scrubbing seldom-used accounts, Google intends to shield logins and user data going forward from potential vulnerabilities.
Before account removal, Google will transmit multiple notification emails to affected accounts. This includes a dedicated message on reactivating the account if still required. Losing access to the Gmail address would also block utilizing other linked online services. Individuals risk being locked out of important accounts tied to the disposed email.
Google recommends occasional sign-ins, email checks, Google Drive usage or app downloads to maintain account liveliness. This ensures the inactive designation gets reset without triggering automatic deletion.