Google may delete your Gmail account if you don’t do this

Since the end of 2023, Google has enforced a new policy stating that Gmail accounts that haven’t been used for two years may be permanently deleted.

This applies not only to the email account itself, but also to associated services such as Google Drive, Google Calendar and Google Photos.

At the same time, the linked email address may be made available to other users.

Google sends multiple reminders before deleting an account.
These notifications go to both the Gmail address and any recovery email you have added.

Why Google removes inactive accounts

Google says the measure is intended to strengthen security.

Accounts that haven’t been used for a long time often have weak passwords and lack two-step verification.

This makes them more vulnerable to hacking and identity theft.

By removing inactive accounts, Google reduces the risk of misuse and better protects users’ data.

Business accounts and accounts associated with schools or organizations are exempt from this policy.
The same applies to accounts with active YouTube channels.

How to prevent deletion

To avoid having your account deleted, Google requires you to sign in at least once every two years.

A number of other activities also count as signs of account activity, including:

• Sending or receiving an email
• Using Google Drive
• Watching videos on YouTube
• Downloading apps from Google Play
• Conducting searches on Google
• Signing in to apps and services using your Google Account
• Having active subscriptions tied to the account

Don’t forget your old accounts

If you have old Gmail addresses that you rarely use, it’s a good idea to sign in once in a while.

This ensures that your data, contacts and access to Google services are not lost.

A single login every two years is enough — and could save important information from being deleted forever.