Getting locked out of your Google account is frustrating, but a new feature is changing that. Google will let friends help you recover an account through a simple, secure tool called Recovery Contacts. The update is part of the company’s ongoing effort to make account access easier while keeping security airtight.
What Is Google’s Recovery Contacts Feature?
Google’s Recovery Contacts feature lets you designate trusted friends or family members to verify your identity if you ever lose access to your account. Instead of dealing with old-school recovery emails or confusing security questions, your chosen contact can help confirm who you are so you can quickly regain control.
According to Google, this method offers “a simple and secure way to regain access when standard recovery methods fail.” The feature can be found under the Security section in your account settings and is currently available for eligible personal Google accounts.
How Google Will Let Friends Help You Recover An Account
Here’s how the process works: once you’ve set up your recovery contact, that person will be able to verify your identity when you’re locked out. Google hasn’t revealed every step of the process yet, but it likely involves a secure confirmation request sent to your contact’s phone or email.
This small yet powerful update could eliminate the stress of trying to remember old passwords or dig up forgotten recovery emails. Instead, a trusted contact can vouch for you safely and efficiently.
Sign In With Mobile Number: Another Smart Recovery Option
Alongside this new feature, Google is also rolling out Sign In with Mobile Number, an Android tool that uses your phone number to automatically identify your Google account.
This feature is especially useful when switching to a new device after losing your old one. Rather than needing to enter your password, you can verify your identity using the lock-screen passcode from your previous phone. Google says this feature is being rolled out gradually around the world.
Why This Update Matters
Security and convenience are often at odds, but Google will let friends help you recover an account without compromising safety. This tool could significantly reduce downtime for users locked out after hacks, forgotten passwords, or stolen devices.
Combined with phone-based sign-ins, Google is clearly steering toward a password-free future where access recovery feels natural and human-centered rather than technical and tedious.
Part Of Google’s Broader Security Push
The new recovery tools are just one piece of Google’s larger effort to enhance online safety. The company is also adding more protective measures to Google Messages, such as warning users about suspicious links that may lead to phishing or scam websites.
Additionally, a new Key Verifier feature helps users confirm trusted contacts more easily, reducing the risk of impersonation attempts.
As digital accounts become more central to everyday life, losing access can feel catastrophic. With this latest update, Google will let friends help you recover an account, making the process not only faster but also more personal.
By blending human trust with strong verification systems, Google is proving that the future of online security is both smarter and more compassionate.
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