Google is making it easier to regain access to your account if you ever get locked out. We’ll take a look at the new recovery tools they’re rolling out as we sit down and sync up with Rocket IT’s weekly technology update.

In this episode, you’ll hear more about:

• Google’s newest tools for account recovery.
• How trusted contacts can help regain access.
• What to know about signing into Google with your phone number.
• Whether these changes create new security risks.
• And how an IT partner can keep your accounts protected.

Video Transcript

According to Google, nearly four in five people worry about losing access to their online accounts because of a hack. That means even though recovery options already exist, many users still find them unreliable when they need them most. To fix that, Google’s introducing two new recovery methods designed to create a stronger safety net.

First, there’s Recovery Contacts. This new feature from Google lets you choose trusted friends or family members who can help verify your identity if you’re ever locked out. So, if you forget your password or your account gets compromised, a quick confirmation from a trusted contact could get you back in faster.

To find this option, head to your Google Account settings, select Security, and look for Recovery Contacts at the bottom of the page. Also, while you’re there, take a look at your other security and recovery settings, as Google has refreshed this section to make it easier to manage.

But what if the problem isn’t your password, it’s your device? That’s where Sign in with Mobile Number comes in. While currently exclusive to Android devices, this feature automatically recognizes your Google Account using your phone number, even if you’ve lost your previous device. Instead of entering a password, Google simply asks for the lock-screen passcode from your old phone to verify your identity.

Together, these two updates make recovery both simpler and smarter, layering on to existing methods to create a more complete safety net.

Now, while these new settings make account recovery faster, could they also create security risks? Potentially, yes, if someone were to trick one of your listed recovery contacts into believing you lost access to your account. So, it’s important to remember that even with better tools, personal vigilance is critical.

For individuals, these tools are a welcome update. But for organizations, account recovery is often more complex. involving multiple users, business data, and cloud access. A trusted provider can help you secure recovery options across all your business accounts, enforce best practices for account management, and respond quickly if a lockout or breach ever happens. For help, contact Rocket IT using the link in this video’s description. And to stay up to date on trending technology news, hit that subscribe button and the bell to catch us on next week’s episode of Sync Up with Rocket IT.