There are several things you can do to make your Google account more secure and prevent hackers from accessing it.
The first step in this process is to enable 2-step verification, which will require you to enter a temporary access code in addition to your username and password.
whenever you log in to your account from an unknown device or browser, like when using public Wi-Fi at the library or when traveling abroad.
To enable 2-step verification on your Google account, go to the Security section of your account settings and select 2-step verification under Signing in to Google. Then choose Get started and enter your username and password.
Change your password
Many people make the mistake of reusing the same password across multiple sites. It's a tempting habit, but it can be downright dangerous if any of those sites are hacked.
If you want to be on the safe side, take some time today to change your passwords on all of your favorite websites. And make sure you do it securely!
Enable two-step verification
One of the best ways to protect your account is by enabling two-step verification.
Turning on this feature will add an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code that's been sent to your phone when you log in, or when someone tries to log in from a new device. Plus, it's free!
Add a recovery phone number
You should also designate a recovery phone number (or one will be generated for you), along with their respective codes.
When you sign in on a new device, the system will call this number, and ask for an access code that has been texted to your phone.
This ensures that no unauthorized person can log into your account, even if they know your password or find your security questions.
Download all your data
Get all your data - including emails, documents, photos, videos, audio files and other online content- downloaded. This will take a few hours but can't be done later so try to start this as soon as possible.
Once it's done you'll be able to install them on any computer or device using File Explorer or a web browser like Chrome.
You'll be prompted when it's time for you to log in again on each device. When that happens just use the same account password.
Monitor activity for unauthorized access
Account security is key for staying safe online. It can be hard to keep up with all the latest changes in your account activity,
Especially when you're sharing access with a family member or significant other.
To help you better monitor your account, we'll show you some ways that you can make sure your account is secure -Log into your account on an alternate browser.
Set up notifications for unusual activity
1. If you're about to log out of your Gmail account, don't forget to check the box for Require another sign-in attempt so that if someone else tries logging in, they'll need their own login information.
2. Sign into your account on your mobile device or computer.
3. Make sure you've set up two-step verification.
4. Check for unusual activity by clicking on the Sign In & Security tab at the top right corner of your Gmail inbox and scrolling down to Activity Controls .
conclusion
It's easy to protect your privacy on the internet, whether you're on your desktop or with a smartphone.
Every day, every hour people are doing things online that put their digital footprint out there for the world to see.
So it's important for you, as a digital citizen of our world, to do your part by protecting yourself from hackers and cybercriminals who want access to your personal information.
If you take these tips with you wherever you go online, then your digital self will stay in perfect order.