Google Adds Friends as Account Recovery Contacts

Enhanced Privacy and Account Recovery Features from Google

Google has recently unveiled a suite of new privacy and account recovery mechanisms designed to enhance user security across its Android-related products.

Combating Spam and Phishing

These updates directly address the growing issue of spam and malicious links, particularly within messaging applications.

Google Messages is now equipped with enhanced spam link detection. This feature proactively warns users before they access potentially harmful websites embedded within messages.

For users seeking an additional layer of security, a key verifier is being integrated into Google Messages. This allows for confirmation of the recipient’s identity and ensures end-to-end encrypted communication.

Android 10 and newer versions support verification via QR code scanning.

Strengthened Account Recovery Options

Google is introducing new methods to facilitate Google account recovery, even when a device is lost or an account has been compromised.

A new feature, Recovery Contacts, allows users to designate trusted friends or family members to assist in the recovery process. These contacts can help verify your identity when you’re locked out of your account.

This setting is accessible within the security section of your Google Account settings.

Upon initiating recovery, a temporary, 15-minute validity code is sent to the designated recovery contact. You will need this code to regain access.

Users can add up to 10 recovery contacts, but each contact must approve the request to be added. A seven-day waiting period applies before a contact can be used again for recovery.

Furthermore, sign-in with phone number is being expanded as a recovery option. This is especially useful when a device is unavailable.

The system automatically identifies accounts linked to a specific phone number. Verification can be achieved using the lock-screen passcode or pattern from a previously used device.

This feature is currently being rolled out globally.

Educational Resources

To further empower users, Google is launching “Be Scam Ready,” an interactive game designed to educate individuals about various fraud and scam scenarios.

This initiative aims to improve user awareness and resilience against online threats.