Nowadays, we all have Google accounts stuffed with personal details such as emails, contacts, appointments, and text messages. Unfortunately, losing or hacking an account may be both unpleasant and risky. If a hacker gains access to your Google account, they will have access to your personal details. That is not something you want to happen. Concerning that, if you fall into this group, you will need to restore your Google account in order to secure your personal details.
That brings us to the focus of this guide. Below, we’ll be having a look at how to recover your Google account if you’ve forgotten the password or it’s been hacked. Bearing that in mind, let’s kick things off!
How to recover your Google account if you forgot your password
This is most likely one of the simplest ways for recovering a Google account. Simply click the Forgot password? link to get started.
If the account has two-factor authentication enabled, you need to input the 2FA code or a backup code before proceeding. If you are unable to do so, know that you have successfully lost access to the account. For security concerns, there is no way to disable two-factor authentication. That’s another reason to keep your backup codes secure.
Assuming you’ve passed the two-factor authentication step (or didn’t require it in the first place), you’ll be prompted to enter the last password you recall using with the account. Google will then send an activation code to the account’s backup email address.
If you are unable to recall any passwords or obtain an activation code, you will be required to answer your recovery questions. If you can’t answer those questions, your prospects of recovery are almost nil.
How to recover a Google account if your account was hacked
If your Google account has been compromised, you must act quickly. The quicker you respond, the better.
If someone signs into your account using an unknown device or IP address, Google quickly flags it and sends you an email to notify you. If you don’t recognize the login, you must immediately go to the security section of your Google account and reset your password.
However, if you wait too long and the hacker gets the opportunity to reset the password, you will be sent to the account recovery page. You’ll be prompted to enter the last password you recall, as well as your security questions. A verification code will be sent to your backup email address or phone number if you have one in your account. That is why it is important that you include these details in advance in order to “hack-proof” your account in the future.
Wrapping it Up
There you have it on how to recover your Google account if you’ve forgotten the password or it’s been hacked. In a nutshell, recovering your Google account is always easy once you’re familiar with the steps to follow. Meanwhile, irrespective of where you fall into, you can always go through this guide to get the much needed help!
