Google is one of the most widely used internet service providers globally, offering services like Gmail, Google Drive, YouTube, and Photos—all under one Google Account. A key part of managing these services securely and effectively is linking mobile phone numbers to user accounts. But how exactly does do this, and why?
Why Does Google Link Mobile Numbers to Accounts?
Linking a mobile number to a account serves several important purposes:
Account Security: Mobile numbers enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and account recovery options.
Identity Verification: Phone numbers help confirm that the account belongs to a real person.
Communication: can send recent mobile phone number data security alerts, verification codes, and important notifications via SMS.
How Does Google Collect and Link Your Mobile Number?
1. During Account Creation
When you create a Account, you are often asked to provide a mobile number. This step is optional but highly encouraged.
Google requests your number to verify that you are a genuine user, preventing automated or fraudulent account creation.
After you enter your phone number, sends a verification code via SMS. You enter this code to prove ownership of the number.
Once verified, your phone number is linked to the new account.
2. Adding or Updating Phone Number in Account Settings
If you have an existing Account some real-world examples of successful without a linked phone number, you can add one later:
By going to Account Settings > Personal info > Contact info > Phone, you can add or update your number.
Google again sends an SMS verification code to confirm you own the number.
After verification, your phone number is stored securely with your account.
3. Via Android Device Registration
When you sign into a Account on an Android phone, can sometimes detect and link the device’s phone number (if available).
This allows automatically associate your mobile number with your account.
It helps in services like Voice, Find My Device, and SMS-based authentication.
How Does Google Use Your Linked Mobile Number?
1. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Mobile numbers enable to provide facebook users an extra layer of security beyond just a password.
When 2FA is enabled, Google sends a one-time verification code (OTP) via SMS during sign-in.
This prevents unauthorized access, even if someone has your password.
Google also supports security prompts and authenticator apps, but SMS remains a widely used option.
Google can send a recovery code to your phone.