If you’re not aware, the private photos and videos you’re trying to keep hidden might not be as safe as you think. A leaked nude, intimate, or compromising image or video—or even a confidential document, or a family photo you’ve kept secret from your spouse—nothing stays hidden forever.
It’s not just about being careless; it’s about the app on your phone called Google Photos. If you’ve used the app on multiple devices, every time you switch devices, Google Photos syncs all your old (and new) photos and videos across these devices.
Your photos and videos are stored in the cloud on Google’s servers. When you sign into Google Photos with the same Google account on different devices—like your phone, tablet, or computer—those devices can access and display the same library of photos and videos.
For example, if I uploaded a sensitive photo to Google Photos from my Galaxy A23 phone in October 2023, and then bought a new Galaxy A05 phone in February 2025 and signed into Google Photos, I would be able to view that same photo on my new device. If I then decided to give my old Galaxy A23 phone to my teenage daughter, she could access that photo as well. But it doesn’t stop there! If I allowed my colleague to use my laptop, they could open Google Photos and see the photo, too.
This shows how insecure Google Photos can be unless you take specific precautions. Are you ready for the action I recommend? To avoid falling into any embarrassing situation, follow these steps to keep your Google Account secure:
- Download the Google App: If you don’t have the app, download it from the App Store. For Android users, the app usually comes pre-installed on your device.
- Log In: Use the same email address you have associated with your Google Photos to log in. If you’re an active Google Account user, you should already be logged in.
- Manage Your Account: Tap your profile photo at the top right corner and select “Manage your Google Account.” Then, scroll to the “Security” tab and look for “Manage all devices.”
- Sign Out of Devices: Browse through the list of devices connected to your Google Account and sign out of any device you wish to disconnect. This could include phones, tablets, or laptops.
By following this guide, you’ll enhance the security and privacy of your account, reducing the risk of being hacked or spied on.
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Additionally, if you’re tired of those annoying ads that pop up while you’re browsing or using apps on your smartphone, I’ve written a guide to help you reclaim your phone for uninterrupted browsing, streaming, and app use. You can read it here: How to Block Ads Interrupting You While Using Your Smartphone.
