How to Recover Your Hacked Google Account or Forgotten Password

How to Recover Your Hacked Google Account or Forgotten Password

 

Losing access to your Google account can be a stressful experience, whether it’s due to hacking, forgotten passwords, or other issues. Fortunately, Google provides a streamlined account recovery process to help you regain access. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of recovering your Google account, whether it’s been hacked or you’ve forgotten your password.

 

What You’ll Need

 

Before you begin the recovery process, gather the following information:

• Your Google email address (the one you’re trying to recover).
• Access to your recovery email or phone number (if set up).
• If possible, access to the devices you’ve previously used to log in (for verification purposes).

 

Step 1: Go to Google’s Account Recovery Page

 

Start by visiting Google’s official account recovery page: https://accounts.google.com/signin/recovery.

 

Step 2: Enter Your Google Email Address

 

Enter the email address associated with the account you wish to recover. After entering your email, click Next.

 

Step 3: Choose Your Recovery Method

 

Google will attempt to verify your identity by asking you to select a recovery method. If you’ve set up a recovery email or phone number, Google will offer those options. Choose the method that works best for you.

If you choose a recovery email:

• Google will send a verification code to your recovery email address.
• Check your recovery email inbox for the code, and enter it on the recovery page.

If you choose a recovery phone number:

• Google will send a verification code via text or call.
• Enter the code you received to verify your identity.

If no recovery options are available:

• If Google doesn’t have a recovery email or phone number for you, click Try another way to explore other options.
• For example, Google may ask you to answer security questions or confirm your recent activity on the account.

 

Step 4: Follow the Instructions

 

After entering the verification code or answering security questions, you will be prompted to reset your password. If you’re recovering a hacked account, Google will help you set a new password that only you know.

Choose a Strong New Password:

• Make sure your new password is unique, at least 8 characters long, and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Do not reuse your old passwords, especially if your account was hacked.

 

Step 5: Additional Verification (if necessary)

 

If Google detects suspicious activity, they may ask for additional verification. This can include:

• Verifying your identity with a two-factor authentication method (if enabled).
• Confirming that the recovery request is coming from a device or location that is familiar to Google.

Complete the additional verification steps as required. If you have trouble, click the Help button for assistance or try again later.

 

Step 6: Regaining Full Access

 

Once your password has been reset, you will have full access to your account again. Be sure to:

• Update your security settings, including enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra protection.
• Review your recent activity for any unauthorized changes.
• Check if any recovery methods need to be updated, like your recovery email or phone number.

 

Step 7: Prevent Future Account Issues

 

Now that you've regained access to your Google account, consider taking these steps to prevent future issues:

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This will add an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone.
• Review Your Account Activity: Check your recent account activity by going to Google Security Checkup to ensure no unauthorized actions were taken.
• Update Recovery Information: Regularly update your recovery email address and phone number to ensure that you can regain access in the future.
• Monitor Your Account: Keep an eye on your account for any suspicious activities, such as unknown login locations or unrecognized devices.