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Wait… what’s my password again? Uh oh… You’ve uttered these words before when trying to log in to an account. It happens to all of us. However, when this happens while you’re trying to log in to a Google account, it can be quite a struggle. If this has happened to you, don’t worry. Here’s how to recover your Google account in the case of a lost password.
We’ve all clicked the Forgot password button more than we care to admit. However, when it comes to a Google account, things are a little bit more complicated. Google really takes security seriously, so you’re likely to jump through more hoops when retrieving your account. Just know that there’s a chance that you might not be able to retrieve it at all.
After we explain how to get your account back, we’ll tell you some ways that you can prevent this from happening in the future. There are some things that you can do to keep your account accessible.
How to recover your Google account if you lose your password
Losing your password to your Google account can be a frustrating ordeal especially if you have a lot of useful data associated with it. This is why Google offers a few ways for you to get your account back if you forget your credentials.
Firstly, when you’re at the login screen, type in the email address that you’re trying to access. After you do that, you’ll see the password screen pop up.
Under the text field, you’ll see the Forgot password button. This will take you to another screen. Now, this step will vary depending on what type of recovery information you gave when you made the account. When you make your account, you’re given the chance to enter information like a recovery phone number and a recovery email address. These are for situations just like these when you lose your password.
Recovery methods
Google will send a code to the number or email address to verify that it’s you who’s trying to get into the account. If you didn’t add any recovery information, then regaining access to your account will be much harder. If you did give information, then you’ll go ahead and enter it.
As you see in the screenshot, there are several options. If you tap/click on the phone number option, then your phone will receive a text message with a unique code. Enter that code into the text field. After you do that, you’ll be taken to a screen where you’ll enter your recovery email address.
Just like with the phone number, you’ll get a code sent to your recovery email address. Enter that code, and you’ll be taken into your account.
Passkey
Google also implemented passkeys as a substitute for passwords. If you add a recovery email, and there are devices connected to that account, then you’ll have the option to send a notification to those devices.
When that device gets the notification, you’ll see a prompt fill the screen asking if you’re the one trying to sign in. If you tap on the Yes, it’s me button, then you’ll be taken into your account.
What if you don’t have access to your recovery email or number?
Well, this is where the story ends… If Google asks you for the recovery information, and you can’t access it, then you won’t be able to log into your account. As stated before, Google is really big on security. The company won’t let you log into the account unless it’s absolutely sure that it’s you.
The recovery information is its last attempt to identify you. If you can’t provide the information, then you might have to think about making a new account.
Tips to prevent this from happening
Why go through this mess when you can avoid it? There are different ways to avoid losing access to your account in the case that you forget your password.
Keep a log of your password
First and foremost, make sure to keep a log of your password where you’re not likely to lose it. Get a notetaking app, word processing program, or good old pencil and paper. Make sure you keep it where it won’t be stolen. You can also sign up for a password manager. Just make sure that it’s a trustworthy brand that doesn’t have a history of data breaches.
Keep your password safe
Once you have your password jotted down, make sure that you keep it in a place where no one else can gain access to it. If you have it written down on a document, make sure no one can come in and steal it. They’ll be able to access your account and log you out.
Set up your recovery information
This is a step that many people skip only to kick themselves later. When we set up our new account, we tend to speed past the recovery step just so that we can get into our account. Well, don’t do that!
When you’re prompted to set up a recovery email or phone number, make sure it’s one that you have access to. If this is your first email address, then make sure to ask a friend or family member to use theirs. It has to be one that you can access if you need to use it. The same goes for the recovery number. Make sure it’s one that you have access to. Keep a log of those addresses so you know which ones to send the verification code to.
Keep your recovery information updated
Now that you have your recovery information, keep it up to date. Check back every so often and make sure that you have access to the recovery information. If you get a new phone with a new number, then log in to your account and update the number. If something happens with your recovery email address, make sure to change it.
Check up on everything
Take some time every couple of months to check up on your information. Look at where you have your password saved, check your recovery information, and make sure everything is in order. Steps like these are make-or-break when it comes to keeping your account safe.