HACKER Q&A
📣 caseyf7

Why does Google ignore their own recovery process?


I'm so tired of Gmail requiring me to verify using my account recovery information and then deciding to ignore it when I get it right. I'm using the same device, browser (but not Chrome), and IP address that I've used for years. I'm getting the recovery code and entering it correctly. Also performing an insane amount of Captchas. At the end of this, it still won't let me in. This happens so often and will not work until I wait a few more days. Then my password magically works using the same device, browser, etc. What is wrong with Google?

  👤 throwaway211 Accepted Answer ✓
Get off Google.

They can shut down essential services for your business with no recourse.

Well, with some recourse, that is not being able to pay a mortgage and having your home foreclosed. But no recourse for you over Google.

It is centralised unaccountable power. That should be illegal.

So act first and get off Google.

👤 jmstfv
I'm going through something similar right now. They disabled my business account with no warnings, and now I'll spend my entire weekend cleaning up this mess.

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=41139559

my expectations for them were low anyway, but good Lord...

👤 ggm
Do you have 2FA enabled? Do you have passkeys? Do you have the 10 codes for emergency recovery?

The compounding issues of simple auth/recovery can usually be avoided if you have 2FA.