Google introduces “Recovery Contacts” for easier account recovery

Google has added a new account recovery option called “Recovery Contacts,” allowing users to designate trusted people who can help them regain access to their Google Account if they get locked out. The feature is aimed at users who lose access due to forgotten passwords or inaccessible devices.

How it works:

• Users can add one or more trusted contacts to their Google Account settings.
• These contacts can be contacted by Google to verify your identity or provide recovery codes in case you cannot access your account.
• The feature is similar to recovery/legacy contact systems introduced by other platforms and adds a social layer to traditional recovery methods like phone numbers or secondary emails.

Why this matters: account recovery is a common pain point — losing access can lock users out of important services and data. Recovery Contacts provides an extra, human-assisted option that can reduce account lockouts while keeping control in the account owner’s hands.

Privacy & safety notes:

• You should only add people you fully trust, since recovery contacts will have a role in helping restore access.
• Check Google Account settings and notifications to understand what access or information contacts may receive during recovery.

For general guidance on Google Account recovery and security settings, see the Google Account Help (opens in a new tab).

Discussion: Will you set up recovery contacts for your account — and who would you trust to help recover it?