How To Secure Your Google Account With The Advanced Protection Program

Google’s Advanced Protection Program (APP) is designed for people who need extra security on their Google accounts. It is especially helpful for people at risk of targeted online attacks, like journalists, activists, business leaders, and others handling sensitive information. Here’s how it works and how it keeps your account safe.

What is the Advanced Protection Program?

The Advanced Protection Program is a free tool by Google that adds stronger security to your Google account. It requires using physical security keys or passkeys to sign in. This makes it much harder for hackers to access your account, even if they know your username and password.

APP is important for those who are at risk of phishing attacks or targeted online attacks. It does more than normal 2-Step Verification by adding limits to third-party apps, checking downloads more carefully, and making account recovery stricter to prevent unauthorized access.

Key Benefits of the Advanced Protection Program

1. Defends Against Phishing Attacks: Using security keys prevents hackers from accessing your Google account through fake emails or websites.
2. Stronger Account Security: The APP offers stronger protection than normal account security measures by forcing the use of physical security keys or passkeys. Hackers won’t get in, even if they steal your login details.
3. Advanced Protection Requires Verified Apps: Only Google apps or approved third-party apps can access your personal information. This reduces the chances of unauthorized access.
4. Protects Your Downloads: The program checks the safety of downloads from the internet. If the download is risky, APP will block it or warn you before opening.
5. Extra Steps for Account Recovery: If you ever lose access to your account, the APP has stricter steps for account recovery. This adds an extra layer of safety to prevent others from taking over your account.

Additional Features

• Limits Third-Party Access: Unlike normal 2-Step Verification, APP limits the access of third-party apps that connect to your Google data. This reduces the risk of your information being stolen.
• Protects High-Risk Users: If you’re a high-risk user, such as a political leader, business executive, or journalist, the APP is designed to keep your Google account secure from cyber threats.
• Google Workspace Compatible: If your workplace uses Google Workspace, your admin can allow you to enroll in the program to protect your work Gmail accounts as well.

How to Enroll in the Advanced Protection Program

Here’s how you can secure your Google account with the Advanced Protection Program:

1. Purchase Security Keys: Get a security key (either USB or Bluetooth), which you will use to sign in to your Google account.
2. Set Recovery Options: Add a recovery phone number and email to avoid getting locked out of your account.
3. Follow the Setup: Complete the enrollment process on your Android or iOS device by following Google’s instructions.

Is Advanced Protection Right for You?

The Advanced Protection Program is perfect for people who face a higher risk of targeted online attacks, especially those handling sensitive data. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Gmail Required: You must use Gmail to read your emails.
• Limited Third-Party Apps: Some apps that need to access your Google data may not work with APP.
• Complex Account Recovery: Account recovery will require extra steps, which makes it more secure but also more challenging if you lose access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cost of the Advanced Protection Program?
   The program itself is free, but you may need to buy security keys if you don’t already have them.
2. Can I enroll multiple accounts in the Advanced Protection Program?
   Yes, you can enroll multiple accounts, including personal Gmail accounts and Google Workspace accounts.
3. What happens if I lose my security key?
   You can use your backup security key or go through the more detailed account recovery process.
4. Can I use third-party apps with the Advanced Protection Program?
   Only verified third-party apps can access your Google account data. Some apps may no longer work.
5. Does Advanced Protection block harmful apps or downloads?
   Yes, APP checks downloads and apps to make sure they are safe, reducing the risk of malware or harmful software.

By enrolling in the Google Advanced Protection Program, you’re choosing the strongest protection available for your account. It is ideal for anyone at risk of phishing attacks or other forms of targeted online attacks. This ensures that your personal information and Google account are kept safe at all times.

Also Read: How To Set Up Google Passkey On iPhone And Android: A Quick Guide