Google Adds More Security, Privacy To Google Account

Google announced last week it is overhauling its privacy and security settings service — dubbed Google Account — to make it more secure and easier to use.

In a blog post, Jan Hannemann, Product Manager, Google Account said that the new Google Account experience includes features so users can more easily navigate their account, more security and privacy  options that are prominently displayed and detailed summaries of information associated with it such as personal information, devices, payment methods, purchase subscriptions, reservations and contacts.

“Several years ago, we brought our privacy and security settings together in one place to make it easier for you to choose the options that are right for you. Billions of people have now visited their Google Account, and over 20 million people do so every day. We’ve added new features in your Google Account to make it even easier to review and control this data. We’ve introduced a new search functionality that enables you to find settings and other info you might be looking for in your account, like how to change your password,” wrote Hannemann. “When you have a problem but don’t quite know what to look for, you can access a new dedicated support section as well. There, you’ll find help with common tasks, like upgrading your account storage, and get answers from community experts.”

The executive went on to say that Google knows data and privacy are not a one-size-fits-all thing, and to help customers better understand and take control of the Google Account feature, it made the privacy options easier to review. “You can now more easily find your Activity controls in the Data & Personalization tab and choose what types of activity data are saved in your account to make Google work better for you. There, you’ll also find the recently updated Privacy Checkup that helps you review your privacy settings and explains how they shape your experience across Google services,” he wrote.

What’s more, Hannemann noted that the new Google Account will show prominent notices if it detects something can be done to improve security, including for example, suggesting you remove your account from older devices.