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How to Change Your Recovery Email and Phone Number in Gmail

How to Change Your Recovery Email and Phone Number in Gmail: Step-by-Step Guide

Written By : Anurag Reddy
Reviewed By : Shovan Roy

Overview:

  • Updating recovery info strengthens Gmail account security.

  • Both email and phone number can be changed via Gmail settings.

  • Regularly reviewing recovery details ensures uninterrupted account access.

Maintaining the security of your Gmail account is crucial. Ensure that your recovery email address and phone number are up to date, as these allow you to regain access if you forget your password or if your account is compromised. This guide provides clear instructions for updating your recovery information in Gmail efficiently.

Reason to Update Your Recovery Information

Your recovery email and phone number are like a backup plan. If you're locked out of Gmail, Google uses them to verify you. Old information makes getting back in more complex or impossible. Keep this updated to keep your account safe.

Step 1: Log In

Just quickly, sign in to your Gmail using your username and password. Do this on a device and internet you trust. This avoids any security issues. Once you're in, you can get to your account settings.

Also Read: How to Reset Your Gmail Account to Factory Settings?

Step 2: Open Google Account Settings

Select the profile picture icon in the upper right corner of Gmail. Following that, select Manage your Google Account. You'll be directed to a page that allows you to modify your security and personal information. 

Step 3: Go to Personal Info

Next, click Personal info on the left. On this page, you can see your email accounts, phone numbers, birthday, and other personal identifying information. Scroll down to Contact information. 

Step 4: Update Your Recovery Email

In Contact info, click Email and locate your recovery email. Click it, then click Edit. Type in your new recovery email and then verify it by entering the code Google sends you. Ensure the recovery email is one you actively use and is on a secure account, as this will be how you recover your account. 

Step 5: Update Your Recovery Phone Number

Next, still in Contact info, click Phone, and click the Edit next to your recovery phone number. You can now type in the new recovery number and then verify it by entering the code you receive through SMS. After you do this, save this number. You will need the recovery phone number if you get locked out of your Google account or need to prove you are its owner.

Step 6: Double-Check

After updating everything, look over your account settings to be sure the changes are saved. Google might also send notifications to your old recovery info as an extra security step.

Tips for a Safe Gmail Account

  • Make a password that's hard to guess: Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

  • Turn on two-step verification: It makes your account way more secure.

  • Keep your backup info updated: Make sure your email and phone number are correct.

  • Watch your account activity: Look for anything weird in your Gmail security settings.

  • Always sign out of Gmail when you use a public computer.

Also Read: How to Protect Your Personal Information from the Dark Web?

Conclusion

Updating your Gmail recovery email and phone number is an easy way to keep your account secure. By following these steps, you can always get back into your Gmail, avoid problems, and protect your privacy. Keep this info up-to-date to keep your Gmail account safe.

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FAQs:

1. How do I change my recovery email in Gmail?

Go to Google Account → Personal info → Contact info → Email → Edit and update your recovery email.

2. Can I update my recovery phone number on Gmail?

Yes, navigate to Google Account → Personal info → Phone → Edit to add or change your recovery number.

3. Why is it important to keep my Gmail recovery info updated?

Updated recovery info ensures you can regain account access if you forget your password or face security issues.

4. Will Google notify me when I change my recovery info?

Yes, Google sends notifications to your old email or phone to confirm changes for security purposes.

5. Can I use any email or phone number as my recovery info?

Yes, but it should be active, secure, and accessible to ensure successful account recovery.

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