Google’s 2.5 billion registered users make it a prime target for hackers, who are constantly evolving their tactics to bypass security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA). To mitigate this risk, consider opening a second Gmail account as a backup for your primary one.
Creating a Second Gmail Account as a Backup
To create a secondary Gmail account, sign out of your current account and create a new one. You can set up multiple backup accounts to ensure that your data is not compromised if one of them gets hacked. To make these accounts safer, consider using unique information for 2FA codes and authenticator apps, and ensuring that your usernames and passwords are different from other accounts.
Security Measures to Put in Place
When setting up your backup Gmail accounts, tie security measures to unique information where possible. Use a standalone authenticator app instead of having 2FA codes sent to your phone number. Also, use a different device for passkeys and make sure your usernames and passwords are completely different from other accounts.
Google’s Advanced Protection Program
To further secure your Gmail account, consider signing up for Google’s Advanced Protection Program. This program offers additional layers of security when trying to recover compromised accounts and makes it harder for threat actors to compromise your account in the first place. The program is now free for all users and requires only a few steps to enroll.
Key Takeaways
– Open a second Gmail account as a backup for your primary one
– Use unique information for 2FA codes and authenticator apps
– Ensure usernames and passwords are different from other accounts
– Sign up for Google’s Advanced Protection Program for added security
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/two-factor-authentication-isnt-invincible-thats-why-you-need-a-backup-gmail-account