A Google account or Gmail account connects to every Google service or product you use. A Google account works with the Chrome browser, a Chromecast, an Android device, YouTube, Gmail, Google Maps, etc. If your Google account is compromised, some services and devices can be hijacked. Google has many security measures you can take to add an extra layer of security, however, if you suspect your account has been compromised, you should immediately change your password.
Change Google password
A single Google account and its password unlock many services. Where it is convenient to have one account for everything, it also means that the same account can grant the wrong person access to everything.
Change your Google - Desktop password
Changing your Google account password on the desktop is easy if you have access to your account.
- Open any browser of your choice and
- Log into your Google account.
- Select Security from the left column.
- Scroll down and click Password.
- Log in again if prompted.
- Enter a new password and confirm it.
- Click Change Password.
Change the password of Google - Mobile
You can change your Google account password from a mobile device, but you may have to go through a few additional screens to access the right option.
- Visit in a mobile browser.
- Scroll to the Security tab at the top and select it.
- Scroll down to the Sign in to Google section.
- Tap Password.
- Enter a new password and confirm it.
- Tap Change password.
Sign out remotely - Google account
If you're changing your password because you think someone else has access to your account, it's a good idea to log the account out remotely from everything.
- and log into your Google account.
- Select Security from the left column.
- Scroll down to Devices.
- Select Manage devices.
- Click the More Options button at the top right of a device and select Sign Out.
- Repeat for all other devices.
Conclusion
If your Google account is compromised, you risk losing access to Google services and your data. There is also the additional problem that many Dropbox, Slack, Evernote, etc. services all allow users to sign up with a Google account. This puts more services at risk than those owned by Google. If your account has been compromised, you should consider adding two-factor authentication. You can use your phone number or set up the Google Authenticator app.
