Gmail accounts have loads of information, including bank declarations and private letters. It also contains emails with password reset information; thus, different attached reports also become vulnerable. What should you do if someone approaches your account and do what he wants? After accessing, hackers can see and even change your details and access the rest of the online identity. However, no one likes to allow someone to interfere in one’s account. Now you should take ten minutes to learn some essential steps and make your account as secure as possible.
A Strong Password Reduces Hacking Attempts
Avoid using necessary passwords for multiple sites as it may be dangerous. Consequently, once hackers hacked, any account can access multiple accounts that you have engaged with it. To avoid this discomfort, we must use unique passwords. Now, most of the websites recommend random passwords to minimize the risk of hacking attempts. You can also secure your account by using a password manager, either free or paid. Chrome is one of the best browsers to remember passwords.
- Use these easy steps to change Password
- Go to the Google Account Security page.
- Go to Google Sig-in section, then click on Password.
- After prompting, verify your old Password.
- Then enter the new Password (that password manager recommends).
- Finally, click on change password.
Two-Step Verification Enhances Security
A two-step verification, also known as two-factor authentication, is somehow trouble for hackers to attack an account. Without it, the hacker only needs a Password to access the entire Gmail Account. Unluckily, he can also get access to your connected YouTube, Gmail, and Google Pay accounts.
2FA adds an extra protection layer to the way of login. Therefore, Google will ask you to enter a momentary code after adding the username with the Password. You can add 2 step verification by checking the Google account security page.
Besides, Google offers some additional apps to use, like:
- Google Authenticator App
- An SMS Code
Must Update Backup Contact Methods
You may have changed your phone number when you first set up your Gmail account or left an old email account. And it’s a good idea to double-check the contact methods for backup. It is what Google would use to verify you are the account owner should you be locked out of your account.
Users can access their accounts by verifying their phone numbers and emails. Google always asks to add a backup phone number and email to recover accounts. It might be possible that you have changed your old cell phone number or shifted to a new email after creating an account.
Unluckily, if you are unable to put the right information to recover your account, you can’t access it even you own it.
Daily Check Your Account Activity
Hackers can read your texts and all information without your permission. You can find “Last account activity” by scrolling down your account page. When you click on details, Google will show you all activities related to your account. If you find some activity unrelated, you must change your password right now.