Gmail users issued two-week warning as Google to delete millions of accounts
15.11.2023 - 10:16
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
Google is urging Gmail users to check for 'red flag' warning signs to ensure their accounts have not been hacked.
The tech giant is planning to delete millions of accounts that have been inactive for at least two years on December 1. This is because they are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks, but the company warned that active accounts are also still at risk.
Most unused accounts will either have older passwords that are easier to guess, or likely won't have two-factor verification set up, which asks users to provide at least two pieces of identification to sign in. But if you have a Gmail account that you still use, Google wants you to follow some important steps to stay protected.
First, pay attention to your general account information, such as passwords, and phone numbers to make sure they haven't been changed. As passwords are used frequently, this change is easier to spot but you may not realise your recovery phone number has been altered until it's too late.
If this happens, a cyber criminal will be able to take control of the account, as any information needed to sign in will be sent to their number. Next, a hacker also may wholly delete your account after they have used it to try and stop you from signing back in - or they will try to find another way to prevent access, the Mirror reports.
Anyone who has noticed the above signs is recommended to immediately change the password to their Google account. You should also log out of any apps and sites for which you have used the same password for - and you should change the password on your Google password manager.
In fact, the tech giant released a step-by-step guide on how to review your Gmail for any suspicious activity, Metro reported. Once you have completed the