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Gmail changes are right around the corner – are you affected?
Google is phasing out 'antiquated' sign-in methods that force users to share account credentials with third-party apps
From September, third-party apps that use only a password to access Google Accounts (including Gmail) will no longer be supported.
To enhance user security, Google is disabling what it refers to as Less Secure Apps (LSAs). The tech giant announced in a blog post that these pose a potential risk, as third-party apps could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to your account.
Below, our experts at Which? Tech Support explain how to check if you're affected, and what to do if you are.
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Google account changes
From 30 September, third-party apps that require password-only access to Gmail, Google Calendar or Contacts won't work.
To access your account moving forward, you'll need to use a more secure type of access known as OAuth. With these new security measures in place, Google will be better equipped to prevent scammers from accessing your email account.
Before 30 September, do this:
- If you are using Outlook 2016 or earlier – Move to Microsoft 365 or Outlook for Windows or Mac.
- If you are using the mail app on iOS or MacOS and use only a password to log in – Remove and re-add your account. When you add it back, select Sign in with Google.
- If you are using Outlook for Mac and use only a password to log in – Remove and re-add your account. When you add it back, select Sign in with Google.
If you don't complete the steps above before the deadline, you won't be able to log in.
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Turn on 2-Step Verification
While we're on the subject of data security, it's worth enabling 2-Step Verification (2FA) on your online accounts, if you haven't done so already. (See what is 2FA if you want to find out more.)
With 2FA enabled, you can add an extra layer of security to your account. When you attempt to access an account from a new device, the associated website or app will send a code to your phone. You then have to enter the time-sensitive code before you can continue using it.
To activate 2FA for Google, do this:
- Open your Google Account.
- Choose Security.
- Under How you sign in to Google, choose 2-Step Verification > Get started.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
To activate 2FA for Microsoft, do this:
- Sign in to your Microsoft account.
- Under Additional security, choose Two-step verification > Turn on.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
See also: 11 things every smartphone owner should do to keep their data safe.
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