How Can I Update My Google Account?

Introduction

Your Google Account is the method you use to access Gmail, YouTube, Google Drive, Maps, and more. Keeping it updated ensures your information stays accurate and helpful. Whether you need to change your name, update recovery details, or adjust privacy settings, the process only takes a few minutes. This guide will walk you through each step, with screenshot notes included so you’ll know exactly what you need to update and where you can find it.

Start by signing in to your Google account. Go to myaccount.google.com. Enter your email and password to log in.

Once signed in, you’ll see the Google Account dashboard. On the left-hand side of the screen is a menu. Click Personal info.

Here you can change your name, birthday, gender, and profile picture. Simply click the field you want to edit, make your changes, and save.

Scroll down to the Contact info section of the Personal information section. You can update your email addresses and phone numbers here. Adding a recovery email and phone number is recommended for account security and to log back in if you forget your password.

For a stronger account that's less likely to be hacked, return to the left-hand menu and click on Security. From here, you can update your password with a stronger version, turn on two-step verification, and check any recent security notifications.

Google manages security for many websites you visit with its Password Manager. Be sure to regularly check the Password Manager to find credentials that may have been compromised.

Next, click on Data & privacy in the left-hand menu. This allows you to manage ad personalization, decide what activity Google saves, and adjust your sharing preferences. Scroll to the bottom to see all the possible settings for controlling what data you save and share.

In general, changes you make are automatically applied, though you may need to re-enter your password periodically. For security updates, have your password handy since you may need to enter it multiple times.

Review settings regularly. Updating your Google Account once a year helps keep information accurate.\n\n

Use a strong password. A mix of letters, numbers, and symbols provides better protection than a string of words or a meaningful list of numbers. Google can suggest strong password options for you.

Check device activity. Under “Security,” you can see what devices are logged into your account and sign out if needed. This is often where you'll see the first signs of unauthorized use of your account.

Conclusion

Taking a few minutes to update your Google Account keeps your information current and your digital life secure. By following the steps above, you’ll be able to quickly change personal details, strengthen security, and customize your privacy preferences. Since Google syncs across all platforms, your updates apply to Gmail, YouTube, Drive, and every other Google service you use. Update here and see the changes everywhere!