How to Safely Remove Devices From Your Google Account

Your Google account is the gateway to the Google world, connecting you to a multitude of apps and services. However, over time, you may accumulate several devices connected to your account, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and smart TVs. It's important to periodically remove devices that you no longer use or trust to maintain the security and integrity of your Google account.

Why Remove Devices From Google Account

Removing devices from your Google account not only helps declutter your account but also safeguards your personal information. For instance, if you sell or give away a smartphone or any other smart device, you should format it properly and remove it from your Google account to prevent unauthorized access.

Similarly, if you hand a device over to a family member, it's important to remove it from your Google account to avoid any potential privacy breaches. By taking these precautions, you can prevent awkward or embarrassing situations and ensure the privacy of your personal data.

Which Devices Should We Remove From Google Account

You should remove any devices that you are no longer actively using. This includes devices that you have sold, lost, given away, or that have been stolen. By removing these devices, you can ensure that your Google account remains secure and free from potential threats.

How to Remove Devices From Your Google Account

To remove devices from your Google account, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open Google My Account in your favorite browser. This is where you can manage various aspects of your Google account's security, privacy, sharing, and more. Click on Security in the left sidebar.
  2. Scroll down to find a list of all the devices connected to your Google account. Click on Manage devices.
  3. You will see a list of all your devices, including the one you are currently using to access your Google account. The first device in the list will be labeled “This device” to prevent accidental deletion.
  4. To remove a specific device, click on More details below it.
  5. You will see details such as the device's operating system, location, and last date and time of use. You can choose to either Sign out or click Don't recognize this device.
  6. If you choose to sign out, a pop-up will appear to confirm the removal of the device. Click Continue to proceed. The device will be removed from your Google account.

If you select the option “Don't recognize this device,” you will be prompted to Change password instead. This is recommended to ensure that anyone with access to your Google account password is logged out and unable to sign back in.

Remember to follow the on-screen instructions to choose a strong, random password for added security.

Revoke All Trusted/Untrusted Devices

To further enhance the security of your Google account, you can revoke access for all devices that do not require you to enter a 2FA code or allow access via 2SV (2-Step Verification):

  1. Go back to the Security section and click on 2-Step Verification under the Signing in to Google heading.
  2. You will be prompted to re-enter your Google account password.
  3. Click on the Revoke All option. This will remove Google account access for all devices that do not require 2FA or 2SV. It is recommended to enable this option only for devices that you personally own and trust.

By periodically removing devices from your Google account and enabling 2FA or 2SV, you can ensure the security and privacy of your personal information.

Remember to change your Google password regularly and take proactive measures to safeguard your account from potential threats.

Removing unnecessary devices and implementing strong security measures will help you maintain control over your Google account and protect your valuable data.