In a major data cleanup initiative, Google has announced plans to delete inactive user data across multiple services including Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Maps. Here's what users should know to protect their information.
Google Maps Timeline Changes
Google Maps users are receiving notifications about upcoming Timeline data deletion in 2025. The company plans to relocate Timeline data (formerly known as location history) from cloud servers to users' devices for enhanced security. To preserve this data, users must download the Google Maps app on their devices.
Inactive Account Policy
Under Google's revised inactive account policy, accounts untouched for two years or more will be deleted along with all associated data. This decision stems from Google's analysis showing inactive accounts are ten times less likely to use two-step verification, making them more vulnerable to security breaches.
How to Keep Your Account Active
To prevent account deletion, users must show activity through:
- Reading or sending emails
- Using Google Drive
- Watching YouTube videos
- Sharing photos
- Downloading apps
- Using Google Search
- Using Google Sign-in for third-party services
Account Recovery Options
Users who have forgotten their passwords can still recover inactive accounts through:
- Recovery phone numbers
- Recovery email addresses
- Google's Account recovery process
Managing Multiple Accounts
Users can easily manage several Google accounts on one device by:
- Clicking their account avatar
- Selecting "add account"
- Signing into additional accounts
- Switching between accounts as needed
For optimal account maintenance, users should log into each account at least monthly to maintain activity status and prevent deletion.
The deletion process is being implemented gradually, with users receiving notifications approximately six months before their scheduled deletion dates.