Gmail Changes Coming Soon – Will You Be Affected?
Starting this September, Google is making some important updates to make your account safer. They are stopping the use of older ways to sign in, especially ones that only need a password. This will affect apps like Gmail.
No More "Less Secure Apps"
Google is turning off support for apps they call "Less Secure Apps" (LSAs). These are apps that let you sign in to your Google account, like Gmail, with just a password. These apps aren't as safe and could let bad people into your account.
Important Date: September 30
After September 30, apps that need only a password to access Gmail, Google Calendar, or Contacts won't work anymore. To keep using these services, you need to switch to something called OAuth, which is a safer way to log in.
What Should You Do Before September 30?
- If you use Outlook 2016 or older – Upgrade to Microsoft 365 or the newest Outlook version for Windows or Mac.
- If you use iOS or MacOS Mail – Remove your account, then add it again by choosing "Sign in with Google."
- If you use Outlook for Mac – Do the same: remove your account and re-add it with "Sign in with Google."
If you don’t do these steps, you won’t be able to log in to your Gmail account.
Add Extra Security with 2-Step Verification
To make your account even safer, turn on something called 2-Step Verification (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security by sending a code to your phone when you sign in from a new device.
How to Turn On 2FA for Google:
- Open your Google Account.
- Click on Security.
- Under "How you sign in to Google," choose 2-Step Verification and click "Get started."
- Follow the instructions on the screen.
How to Turn On 2FA for Microsoft:
- Sign in to your Microsoft account.
- Go to Additional Security.
- Select Two-Step Verification and click "Turn on."
- Follow the instructions.
Common Questions
Q: What’s changing with Gmail logins?
A: Google is stopping support for apps that only need a password to log in. You will need to use OAuth for better security.
Q: When is the deadline?
A: You need to make changes by September 30. After that, apps that use password-only logins won't work.
Q: Why is Google doing this?
A: These "Less Secure Apps" can be dangerous and allow hackers to get into your account. Google is making things safer.
Q: What if I don’t update my login method?
A: You won’t be able to log into your Google account using apps that only need a password.
Q: How do I prepare if I use Outlook 2016?
A: You need to switch to Microsoft 365 or upgrade to the newest version of Outlook.
Q: What should iOS or MacOS Mail users do?
A: Remove your account, re-add it, and choose "Sign in with Google."
Q: What is OAuth and why is it safer?
A: OAuth lets apps access your account without needing your password, which is safer.
Q: How does 2-Step Verification (2FA) work?
A: 2FA sends a code to your phone when you try to sign in, adding an extra layer of protection.
Q: Can I enable 2FA on both Google and Microsoft accounts?
A: Yes! Both Google and Microsoft offer 2FA, and you can turn it on through your account settings.
Q: Is 2FA required after these changes?
A: It’s not required, but it's highly recommended to make your account more secure.
What Is 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)?
2FA makes your account more secure by requiring two things to log in:
- Something you know (like your password).
- Something you have (like a code sent to your phone).
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