How to Check if Your Google Account Is Being Used by an Unknown Person

G GOWTHAM
Your google account contains sensitive information such as emails, photos, documents, and saved passwords. It’s crucial to ensure that no one else is accessing your account without permission. google provides built-in tools to detect suspicious activity and unauthorized access. Here’s a complete guide.

1. Check Recent Security Activity

  • Google logs all recent account activity, including sign-ins, device usage, and security events.
  • Steps:
Go to Google Account

Click on Security in the left menu

Scroll down to Recent security activity

Review all recent events. If you notice sign-ins from unfamiliar locations or devices, this could indicate unauthorized access.

2. review Devices Connected to Your Account

  • Google shows all devices that have accessed your account recently.
  • Steps:
Go to Security → Your devices → Manage devices

Check for devices you don’t recognize

Click on Sign out for any unfamiliar device

Tip: Always sign out of devices you no longer use or don’t recognize.

3. Check Gmail Account Activity

  • Gmail allows you to see recent account activity:
Open Gmail on desktop

Scroll to the bottom of the inbox

Click Details under “Last account activity”

Review IP addresses, locations, and access type

  • If you notice unusual activity, change your password immediately
4. Enable Security Alerts

  • Google can notify you of suspicious activity via email or phone.
  • Steps:
Go to Security → Security alerts

Enable notifications for unauthorized sign-in attempts or changes

  • You’ll get instant alerts if someone tries to access your account
5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

  • 2FA adds an extra layer of security: even if someone knows your password, they cannot log in without the verification code.
  • Steps:
Go to Security → 2-Step Verification → Get Started

Follow prompts to link your phone number or authentication app

  • Recommended for all accounts with sensitive data
6. Check Account Permissions

  • Sometimes third-party apps or websites can access your account.
  • Steps:
Go to Security → Third-party apps with account access

Remove apps you don’t recognize or no longer use

 Quick Summary

Step

Action

Check Security Activity

Google Account → Security → Recent security activity

Review Devices

Security → Your devices → Manage devices → Sign out unfamiliar devices

Gmail Account Activity

Gmail → Scroll bottom → Details → review IP & access

Enable Security Alerts

Security → Security alerts → Enable notifications

Enable 2FA

Security → 2-Step Verification → Link phone/authenticator app

Check Third-Party Access

Security → Third-party apps → Remove suspicious apps

Conclusion

By regularly checking your account activity, reviewing devices, enabling security alerts, and setting up 2FA, you can protect your google account from unauthorized access. Quick action after spotting suspicious activity is crucial to prevent data theft or misuse.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.


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