Ever logged into your Gmail at a cyber café, a friend’s laptop, or an office computer, and later wondered, “Did I log out?” It sounds harmless, but one forgotten sign-out can give someone access to your emails, photos, contacts, saved passwords, and even your bank alerts. With online scams rising every day, keeping track of where your Google account is logged in is no longer optional; it’s essential. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to check which devices are using your Google account and how to remove any unknown ones. Why is this necessary Your Google account is more than just Gmail. It connects to: If someone gets access, they could misuse sensitive information or lock you out of your own account. Method 1: Check and remove devices using your smartphone or PC This method works on both mobile and desktop browsers. Step 1: Open your Google Account – Go to myaccount.google.com – Sign in with your email ID and password Step 2: Go to the “Security” section – On the left-hand menu (on desktop) or by scrolling (on mobile), tap on ‘Security.’ Step 3: Find “Your Devices” – Scroll down to “Your devices” – Tap or click on Manage all devices You’ll now see a list of devices currently signed in, recently used devices, and the location with the last active time Carefully check for: Also read: AI-generated content for educational purposes will not require labelling
Step 4: Remove a suspicious device If you see something unfamiliar:
– Click on that device. Select Sign out. – Confirm your action. Google will immediately log your account from that device. If it looks suspicious, also choose “Don’t recognise this device?” and follow the security instructions. Method 2: Check via Google Chrome directly If you’re already using Chrome: Step 1: Type myaccount.google.com in the address bar. Step 2: Log in if required. Step 3: Click on Security. Step 4: Under Your devices, click Manage all devices. Step 5: Review the list and sign out from any device you don’t recognise. If prompted, enter your password to confirm changes. Also read: Russia attempts to fully block WhatsApp, promoting state-backed messaging app called ‘Max’
What to do after removing an unknown device If you find suspicious activity, don’t stop at just signing out. Here’s what you should immediately do: 1. Change your password – Go to Security – Click Password Create a strong password (use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols). Avoid birthdates, simple words, and reusing old passwords. 2. Turn on 2-step verification (highly recommended) Even if someone has your password, they won’t be able to log in without a verification code sent to your phone. Go to:
Security → Signing in to Google → 2-Step Verification 3. Check recovery details Make sure your recovery phone number and recovery email address are updated and belong to you. 4. Review app access Under Security → Third-party apps with account access, remove apps you no longer use.
Also read: A simple way to remove explicit images from Google Search
Bonus tips to stay safe on public computers Your Google account is like a master key to your digital life. Checking where it’s logged in takes less than five minutes, but ignoring it can cost you much more.
Make it a habit to review your logged-in devices every few weeks, especially if you travel or use shared computers.