Google to delete inactive Gmail accounts in december: Here's what you need to know

Millions of Gmail users who haven't accessed their accounts in the past two years face the risk of deletion in December 2023. Google has announced a policy update to deactivate personal Google accounts that remain inactive for a minimum of two years, affecting services like Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet, Calendar, and Google Photos. The move is part of Google's efforts to enhance security by addressing vulnerabilities associated with forgotten or unattended accounts, such as reliance on outdated passwords and lack of two-factor authentication.

The policy applies exclusively to personal Google accounts that haven't opened their Gmail in two years, exempting accounts linked to organizations like schools or businesses. Google recommends users sign in at least once every two years to keep their accounts active. Activities such as reading or sending emails, using Google Drive, watching YouTube videos, downloading apps from the Google Play Store, or performing searches contribute to account activity and prevent deletion.

Active subscriptions linked to Google Accounts, such as Google One or news publications, will also safeguard accounts from deletion, and Google currently has no plans to delete accounts associated with YouTube videos.