Google’s new ‘Recovery Contacts’ feature explained: How it keeps your account safe when you lose your phone

Google Recovery Contacts

Losing access to your Google account can feel like losing your digital life. To make recovery easier and safer, Google has introduced a new feature called Recovery Contacts, part of its broader security push across Android and Google Accounts. Here’s a quick Q&A to help you understand how it works and how to set it up.

What is Google’s Recovery Contacts feature?

Recovery Contacts is a new tool that lets you pick trusted friends or family members to help you regain access to your Google account if you get locked out. Whether you’ve lost your device, forgotten your password, or been hacked, your recovery contact can help verify your identity securely.

How does it work?

When you’re locked out, you can choose one of your added recovery contacts as your backup verification method. Google will then send them a unique code (valid for 15 minutes). You’ll use that code to confirm your identity and log back into your account.

Who can be a recovery contact?

Anyone with a Google account can be your recovery contact, but they must first approve your request to be added. You can add up to 10 recovery contacts, and for privacy reasons, a contact can’t be reused for seven days after being involved in a recovery process.

Where do I set it up?

Go to your Google Account settings → Security tab → Recovery options → Recovery Contacts. There, you’ll be able to select and invite your trusted contacts. Once they accept, they’ll appear on your list.

How is this different from recovery email or phone?

While recovery emails and phone numbers are automated and often vulnerable to SIM swaps or phishing, Recovery Contacts adds a human layer of security. It ensures that even if your phone or SIM is compromised, someone you trust can help you recover your account safely.

What about privacy?

Your recovery contacts won’t gain access to your account or see any of your data. Their only role is to verify your identity through the temporary code Google generates.

When is it rolling out?

The Recovery Contacts feature is rolling out globally over the coming weeks alongside another update — the option to sign in or recover your account using your mobile number and old device passcode.