Don’t Let Strangers See Your Photos! How To Secure Your Google Photos Account

Privacy is becoming a bigger issue in the current digital era, particularly when it comes to private images and videos. The well-known memory storage and sharing app Google Photos has several privacy-management tools, but there are potential risks if not used correctly.

The Risks of Sharing in Google Photos

Google Photos allows users to share albums with others, either by sending a link or inviting specific individuals via their Google accounts. However, there may be a privacy risk when sharing through a link.

Once a link is generated, anybody with access to it can access the shared content, even if they don’t have a Google account. This means that unauthorised people may view your photos if the link is shared with people other than the intended recipients.

Moreover, when you share photos, they may include location data, which can reveal where the photos were taken. This information can be sensitive and is automatically included unless you manually disable it.

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How to Secure Your Private Photos in Google Photos

To ensure your private photos remain secure, follow these steps:

1. Use Locked Folders

What are Locked Folders? Locked Folders are password-protected spaces within Google Photos where you can store sensitive photos and videos. Only you, with your chosen password or fingerprint, can access this folder.

How to Set Up a Locked Folder

• Open the Google Photos app on your device.
• Tap on “Library” or “Collection” at the bottom of the screen.
• Tap on “Utilities,” or you can search “Locked Folder” at the bottom of the screen.
• Select “Set up locked folder” and follow the on-screen instructions to choose a password or PIN. Or the locked folder will be set up already, and you can just use your fingerprint, face scan, or current device lock PIN/password to unlock the folder.
• Once set up, you can add photos and videos to the Locked Folder by selecting them, tapping the menu icon (three dots), and choosing “Move to locked folder.” If the folder is empty, you can easily tap “move item.”

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2. Manage Sharing Permissions

Create Private Albums

• Open the Google Photos app and create a new album.
• Add the photos and videos you want to include.
• Tap on the “Share” button and select “Link sharing.”
• Choose “Off” under “Who can see this link” and tap “Create link.” Share the link only with trusted individuals.

Stop Sharing an Album

• Open the desired album and tap “More options.”
• Turn off “Link sharing” to prevent unauthorized access

3. Disable Location Data

Navigate to Settings > Hide photo location data (mobile) or Settings > Sharing > Hide photo location data (desktop) to prevent sharing location information with recipients.

4. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Enable two-factor authentication for your Google account to add an extra layer of security against unauthorized access.

Remember, once photos are shared, they can be downloaded or copied by others, so it’s essential to be mindful of who you share with and how you share. With these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of Google Photos while maintaining control over your personal content.

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