Losing access to your Google Account can feel like losing your entire digital world.
To make the recovery process easier and more secure, Google has launched a new feature called Recovery Contacts.
This tool is part of Google’s broader effort to strengthen account security across Android devices and Google Accounts.
What Is the Recovery Contacts Feature?
The Recovery Contacts feature allows you to choose trusted friends or family members who can help you regain access to your Google Account if you ever get locked out.
Whether you’ve lost your phone, forgotten your password, or your account has been hacked, these trusted contacts can help confirm your identity safely.
How Does It Work?
If you’re locked out of your account, you can select one of your Recovery Contacts for backup verification.
Google will send that person a unique code valid for 15 minutes. You can then use this code to prove your identity and log back into your account.
Who Can Be a Recovery Contact?
Anyone with a Google Account can be chosen as your Recovery Contact, but they must accept your invitation first.
You can add up to 10 Recovery Contacts. For privacy and security, a contact cannot be reused for seven days once they’ve been part of a recovery process.
How to Set It Up
Go to Google Account Settings → Security → Recovery Options → Recovery Contacts.
From there, you can select and invite trusted people. Once they accept your request, their names will appear on your recovery contact list.
How Is It Different from a Recovery Email or Phone Number?
Traditional recovery methods—like email or phone numbers—work automatically, but they can be vulnerable to phishing or SIM-swap attacks.
The new Recovery Contacts feature adds a human layer of protection, ensuring that even if your phone or SIM is compromised, someone you trust can help recover your account safely.
What About Privacy?
Your Recovery Contacts cannot access your Google Account or personal data. Their only role is to verify your identity using a temporary code provided by Google.
When Will It Be Available?
Google is gradually rolling out the Recovery Contacts feature worldwide in the coming weeks.
Additionally, a new update will allow users to sign in or recover their accounts using their mobile number and passcode from an old device.
