How to Review Your Google Account Security Settings

Audience: Staff

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to show users how to check their Google account security settings

Instructions:

Periodically reviewing your Google Account security settings can help ensure that your account remains secure and that no unauthorized changes have been made.

Review Your 2-Step Verification Methods

1. Open a web browser and go to Google Account settings (https://myaccount.google.com).

2. Sign in with your Google account if prompted.

3. Select Security from the menu on the left.

4. Under How you sign in to Google, select 2-Step Verification.

Review the methods listed and confirm that you recognize all of them, including:

• Authenticator apps

• Security keys

• Backup codes

• Google Prompts

• Phone numbers used for verification

If you see a verification method that you do not recognize, contact the Help Desk immediately.

Review Your Recovery Information

While still in the Security section:

1. Locate the Ways we can verify it's you section.

2. Review any recovery phone numbers or recovery email addresses listed.

Confirm that all recovery information belongs to you and is up to date.

If you see information that you do not recognize, contact the Help Desk immediately.

Review Devices Signed In to Your Account

1. In the Security section, locate Your devices.

2. Select Manage all devices.

Review the list of devices currently signed in to your account.

Verify that:

• You recognize all listed devices.

• The devices belong to you.

• The locations and activity shown are expected.

If you find a device that you do not recognize:

1. Select the device.

2. Select Sign out.

3. Contact the Help Desk if you believe the device may have accessed your account without authorization.

Review Recent Security Activity

1. In the Security section, locate Recent security activity.

2. Review recent sign-ins, password changes, and other account activity.

If you notice activity that you do not recognize, contact the Help Desk immediately..

Additional Security Recommendations

• Never approve a sign-in prompt that you did not initiate.

• Do not share verification codes with anyone.

• Use a unique password that is not used on other websites.

• Report any suspicious emails, login prompts, or account activity to the Help Desk.

If you have questions about any security settings or activity shown in your Google Account, contact the Help Desk for assistance.