Google To Delete Inactive Gmail Accounts Starting September 20: How To Protect Yours
As the deadline of September 20 approaches, Google will begin deactivating Gmail accounts that have been inactive for over two years. If you haven’t used your account recently, now is the time to take action to avoid losing access.
Why Is Google Shutting Down Inactive Accounts?
Google’s decision to close inactive Gmail accounts is driven by the need to manage server storage efficiently. Many users create multiple accounts but fail to use them, causing unnecessary strain on Google’s servers. To address this, Google aims to keep only active accounts operational.
Google’s Inactivity Policy
According to Google’s updated policy, any Gmail account not accessed for two or more years is subject to deactivation. Google has been sending notifications to users, urging them to log in and keep their accounts active. Despite these warnings, many accounts remain unused, prompting Google to enforce stricter measures.
How to Prevent Your Gmail Account from Being Deactivated
To ensure your Gmail account remains active, follow these steps:
- Log In Regularly: Simply logging into your Gmail account is the most straightforward way to avoid deactivation.
- Send or Read Emails: Interacting with your inbox by sending or reading emails helps mark your account as active.
- Use Google Services: Access your Google Photos, Google Drive, or share files to demonstrate active use.
- Watch YouTube Videos: Logging into Gmail and watching YouTube videos also contributes to keeping your account active.
- Perform Google Searches: Using Gmail to perform Google searches helps maintain account activity.
Why Is Google Taking This Measure?
This initiative is part of Google’s broader effort to optimize its services and manage server space more effectively. By removing inactive accounts, Google aims to focus on those that are actively used and streamline its operations.
Make sure to act before September 20 to keep your Gmail account active and avoid losing access.